Xabi Alonso Targets €100 Million Bid for Liverpool's Mac Allister

In a significant move during the summer transfer window, Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso has set his sights on signing Liverpool midfielder Alexis Mac Allister, reportedly planning an initial offer of €100 million. This ambitious bid comes on the heels of Los Blancos' disappointing performance in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, where they suffered a 4-0 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in the semi-finals. Alonso, who took over the managerial reins from Carlo Ancelotti, views Mac Allister as the ideal fit for his tactical system, emphasizing the Argentine's potential to lead a new project at Santiago Bernabéu.

Alonso’s interest in Mac Allister is not unfounded; the 26-year-old has been a standout performer for Liverpool since joining from Brighton & Hove Albion, playing a pivotal role in their successful Premier League campaign last season. According to Liverpool manager Arne Slot, Mac Allister possesses exceptional game intelligence and is one of the rare players who combines technical skill with tenacity off the ball. Slot stated, "He is a very important player, has great game intelligence, and is so comfortable on the ball. What makes him even more special is his intensity without the ball."

Despite Madrid's keen interest, Liverpool's management appears reluctant to part with Mac Allister, who has established himself as one of the club's key players. Reports from BBC Sport indicate that he was considered Liverpool's best midfielder last season and a crucial asset in their title-winning squad.

The context of this potential transfer is underscored by Real Madrid's aggressive summer strategy, which has already seen them secure notable signings, including left-back Alvaro Carreras from Benfica for €50 million. According to Fichajes, Madrid is preparing to bolster its squad further by offloading players such as Rodrygo and possibly Daniel Ceballos and Brahim Diaz to facilitate the financial backing for the Mac Allister deal.

While there is significant speculation surrounding this potential transfer, the validity of the reports, particularly those from Fichajes, has been met with skepticism. As noted by various sports analysts, including Fabrizio Romano and The Athletic, Madrid's strategy seems reactive following their recent humiliating defeat, prompting a shake-up within the squad.

In light of this, the implications of such a transfer extend beyond financial considerations. For Real Madrid, securing a player of Mac Allister's caliber could rejuvenate their midfield and signal a new direction under Alonso's management. For Liverpool, retaining Mac Allister will be crucial as they aim to build on their recent successes and maintain competitive stature in both domestic and European competitions.

Looking ahead, the dynamics of this transfer saga will likely evolve as the summer progresses, with both clubs weighing their options. If Madrid is successful in selling several players, the path to acquiring Mac Allister could become clearer. Conversely, Liverpool's determination to hold on to their star midfielder may set the stage for a protracted negotiation period, characterized by heightened tensions and strategic maneuvering from both sides.