Alexis Mac Allister spoke of his love for Brighton on Thursday night – but Liverpool have emerged as the frontrunners to sign the match-winner against Manchester United this summer.
The 24-year-old, integral to Argentina winning the World Cup, has suitors across Europe after two stellar seasons on the South Coast.
The expectation is that he will seal an estimated £70million move this summer and his father and representative, Carlos, is handling the negotiations.
Mac Allister buried his 99th-minute penalty on Thursday night and said afterwards: ‘Of course I was a little nervous.
‘I’m very happy every time I have an opportunity to score a goal, so I’m very happy for the team. It’s easy to play in this team. The way we play is very nice. My team-mates are fantastic.
Alexis Mac Allister could be set for a summer move to Liverpool after a fine season at Brighton
Jurgen Klopp’s side are widely tipped to undertake a midfield rebuild this summer
He has 10 goals in all competitions this season and helped Argentina lift the World Cup
‘It’s down to them as well. I’m really pleased to play with them and they help me to be a better player every day.
‘To be honest, after the World Cup it was a little difficult to play straight away. We didn’t have the time to celebrate properly. But it is what it is.’
Last night’s game descended into chaos as referee Andre Marriner struggled to keep control. He did not see the handball by Luke Shaw in stoppage time but was alerted to it by VAR Andy Madley.
‘Every defeat is a disappointment,’ United boss Erik Ten Hag said.
‘But in the end, to lose in the last second is annoying. In the end, we gave away the goal. We have to do our jobs to the end. We lose control and we lost the game. If you can’t win, don’t lose.’
Both Manchester clubs are among those keeping watch of the situation, with the former Boca Juniors man likely to cost up to £70million.
Sources at the Amex Stadium claimed that the squad have openly discussed the prospect of Mac Allister sealing a switch to Liverpool in the coming months.
Brighton – who are signing James Milner on a free transfer once his contract expires – are tough negotiators and also have clubs, including Chelsea, circling for fellow midfielder Moises Caicedo.
Fabrizio Romano reported that the Reds were in advanced talks with the 24-year-old midfielder
The Reds missed out on Jude Bellingham who is believed to be close to a move to Real Madrid
Should…