Manchester City are preparing for another major midfield reshuffle as Enzo Maresca shapes his squad for the new season.
The Citizens have already spent heavily this summer. Elliot Anderson arrived from Nottingham Forest for £116 million as the club began rebuilding its midfield.
However, Rodri now appears increasingly likely to leave the Etihad Stadium. Barcelona are working on a deal for the Spain international, which could create another significant vacancy.
City are already holding advanced talks with Lille over Ayyoub Bouaddi. They have also considered Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez, although his £120 million valuation presents a major obstacle.
Their search has now led them towards another Premier League rival.
According to talkSPORT, Manchester City have internally discussed a move for Liverpool midfielder Alexis Mac Allister as they assess possible replacements for Rodri.
City have not contacted Liverpool or Mac Allister’s representatives at this stage.
The Argentina international currently features on an internal shortlist rather than becoming the subject of formal negotiations.
Mac Allister joined Liverpool from Brighton in 2023 for a package worth £55 million. He played an important role when the Reds won the Premier League in 2024–25.
However, his performances dipped during Liverpool’s difficult campaign last season. The Reds eventually finished fifth after struggling for consistency under Arne Slot.
Mac Allister has now entered the final two years of his Liverpool contract. That situation could potentially make him more attainable than some of City’s other midfield targets.
Maresca’s side are also weighing up Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton. Fernandez remains admired at the Etihad following his previous spell under Maresca at Chelsea.
However, City could face enormous costs if they pursue several midfielders simultaneously. Bouaddi could cost around £100 million, while Chelsea want approximately £120 million for Fernandez.
For now, City remain focused on completing the Bouaddi deal. Mac Allister nevertheless represents an intriguing alternative if Rodri completes his expected move to Barcelona.
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