Mac Allister to Man United? The transfer that could break a 60-year taboo
Liverpool's Argentine midfielder reportedly on United's radar in a potential blockbuster move that would be the first direct transfer between the rivals since 1964.
Manchester United are reportedly eyeing up a sensational swoop for Liverpool’s Alexis Mac Allister in what would be the first direct transfer between the bitter rivals in over six decades.
Red Devils plotting summer raid
According to English media reports, specifically the Daily Mirror, Manchester United have identified Mac Allister as a prime target for the upcoming summer transfer window. The Argentine midfielder, who joined Liverpool from Brighton for £55 million in 2023, has apparently caught the eye of United’s decision-makers as they begin planning their squad overhaul.
The potential move comes as United look to bolster their midfield options following the club’s announcement that Brazilian anchor Casemiro will depart at the end of the current campaign.
Obstacles to overcome
Pulling off such a transfer would be an absolute nightmare, and that’s putting it mildly. Several significant hurdles stand in the way:
- Mac Allister is under contract at Anfield until 2028
- Liverpool would demand an astronomical fee for one of their star performers
- The intense rivalry between England’s two most successful clubs makes negotiations incredibly complicated
Potential swap deal?
To sweeten the pot and potentially reduce the cash outlay, reports from the Daily Express suggest United might offer players in exchange. Three names have been floated as possible makeweights:
- Kobbie Mainoo
- Manuel Ugarte
- Mason Mount
Breaking a 60-year taboo
What makes this rumour particularly fascinating is the historical context. If Mac Allister were to swap Merseyside for Manchester, it would be the first direct transfer between these arch-rivals since 1964, when Phil Chisnall moved from United to Liverpool.
The 27-year-old Argentine has been a proper diamond for Liverpool since his arrival, establishing himself as a key figure in their midfield. Whether the Reds would even entertain selling to their bitter rivals seems doubtful, but stranger things have happened in football.
United fans might be dreaming of seeing Mac Allister in red next season, but they’d better not hold their breath. This potential transfer has more red flags than a communist parade, but it’s certainly one to keep an eye on as the summer window approaches.