Real Madrid’s search for a midfield maestro has taken a significant turn. After deeming a move for Chelsea’s Enzo Fernández “financially unviable,” the Spanish giants have reportedly renewed their interest in Liverpool’s World Cup winner, Alexis Mac Allister.
The “Ancelotti Choice”
According to Mario Cortegana of The Athletic, Mac Allister has long been a favourite of Carlo Ancelotti. The Italian manager reportedly identifies the Argentinian as the perfect profile to add balance and creativity to Madrid’s engine room.
Unlike the pursuit of Enzo, which has been hampered by Chelsea’s €100m+ valuation and long-term contract, Real Madrid view Mac Allister as a more realistic target for the upcoming summer window.
Contractual Leverage
While Mac Allister is a fundamental piece of the puzzle at Anfield, his contract situation provides a glimmer of hope for the Merengues. By June 2026, the 27-year-old will have only two years remaining on his deal with Liverpool.
Historically, this is the “sweet spot” for buying clubs to negotiate lower fees. Preliminary inquiries have already been made, and sources close to the player suggest that the feedback from Mac Allister’s camp regarding a move to the Bernabéu has been “highly positive.”
Summer Strategy
Staying true to their transfer philosophy, Real Madrid are unlikely to make any moves before the end of the current campaign. The board is focusing its financial power on a high-impact summer window, where Mac Allister could emerge as the marquee signing to lead the post-Modric era.
For Liverpool, losing their midfield anchor would be a massive blow, but with the player’s contract entering its final two years, the Reds may be forced to choose between a lucrative sale or risking a free transfer in 2028.
James Horan is a football writer focused on the Premier League transfer market, covering confirmed signings, transfer rumors, and club strategies during the transfer windows.
