Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola has made it clear that he wants Alexis Mac Allister to remain at Anfield despite growing speculation surrounding the midfielder’s future. The Argentina international still has two years left on the five-year contract he signed after arriving at the club in 2023, but no negotiations over an extension have begun.
The lack of progress on a new agreement has fuelled reports linking Mac Allister with a possible departure this summer. Even so, Iraola insisted he is focused on retaining one of his key performers rather than preparing for life without him.
The Liverpool boss described Mac Allister as one of the club’s standout players over the past few seasons and said it is only natural that rival teams show interest in footballers who perform at such a high level.
He added that every transfer market brings attention from other clubs, but his priority is strengthening the squad with new arrivals instead of losing important members of the current team.
Alisson’s future remains important for Liverpool
Iraola also addressed the future of goalkeeper Alisson, who has one year remaining on his Liverpool contract and has recently been linked with Juventus.
Rather than considering the experienced Brazilian as a possible departure, the manager highlighted the important role he plays both on and off the pitch. Iraola said he is fully satisfied with the club’s current goalkeeping options ahead of the new campaign.
According to the Liverpool head coach, Alisson’s leadership has become even more valuable as the dressing room adjusts after losing several experienced figures. He believes the goalkeeper will play a major part in helping new signings and younger players settle into the squad.
Iraola also pointed to Virgil van Dijk and Joe Gomez as long-serving players whose experience will be crucial during the adaptation process throughout the coming season.
Liverpool’s transfer plans focus on defensive depth
While determined to keep his established stars, Iraola admitted Liverpool are searching for defensive reinforcements before the transfer window closes.
The manager explained that the situation at right-back has become particularly challenging because Conor Bradley remains unavailable after suffering a knee injury in January. He expects the Northern Ireland international to be out for several more months.
Iraola said Liverpool would have had no concerns in that position if Bradley had been fully fit, stressing that the club sees him as its long-term solution at right-back.
However, with Bradley still some way from returning and the squad also needing additional cover in central defence, Iraola acknowledged that Liverpool are currently short of defensive options and are actively working to address the issue.
