Andoni Iraola breaks silence on Alexis Mac Allister’s future amid Real Madrid links and reveals Liverpool’s transfer priorities

Liverpool head coach Andoni Iraola has dismissed growing speculation surrounding Alexis Mac Allister’s future, insisting he wants to keep one of his standout performers despite continued interest from Real Madrid.

The Reds boss also admitted Liverpool still have obvious areas that require strengthening before the transfer window closes, with a new winger sitting at the top of the club’s shopping list.

Iraola addresses Mac Allister speculation

Mac Allister has emerged as one of Liverpool’s most important players since arriving at Anfield, and his performances have inevitably attracted attention from Europe’s elite.

Real Madrid have repeatedly been linked with the Argentina international, but Iraola made it clear that Liverpool have no intention of losing one of their key midfielders.

The Argentine is expected to rejoin the squad after enjoying an extended break following his involvement in the 2026 World Cup final.

“I think Alexis has been one of the best players of the club last year and has done a very good World Cup,” Iraola said.

“It is normal that other clubs want our best players. It always happens in every transfer window. But I want to keep my good players. Probably I’m looking forward more to signing new players than losing the ones we already have.”

Liverpool prioritising attacking reinforcements

While determined to retain Mac Allister, Iraola acknowledged that Liverpool’s recruitment team is actively working to strengthen the squad.

Following the departures of Mohamed Salah, Andy Robertson and Ibrahima Konate, the Reds are keen to reinforce several positions before the new campaign begins.

The Liverpool manager admitted that signing a winger remains the club’s most urgent objective.

“I think it is difficult to say a number,” Iraola explained.

“When the market is open, you always have to be ready for opportunities that improve the squad.

“There are obvious situations where we need to sign players. A winger, for example—we definitely need to sign a winger. Other positions will depend on what the market offers, the cost involved and how we assess the players we already have.”

Injury concerns also shaping recruitment plans

Liverpool’s transfer strategy is also being influenced by injuries within the current squad.

Several players are still working their way back to full fitness, forcing the coaching staff to carefully assess whether further reinforcements are required before the deadline.

Iraola admitted those decisions will depend on how quickly key players return.

“We have some tricky positions where we have injured players that we trust, but it is still not the ideal situation, so it will depend on a lot of things,” he added.

Mac Allister remains central to Liverpool’s plans

Despite persistent speculation linking him with a move to the Santiago Bernabeu, Mac Allister remains firmly part of Liverpool’s long-term plans.

Iraola’s public backing underlines just how highly the Argentine is valued at Anfield, with the club focused on building around its established stars rather than cashing in.

As Liverpool continue their search for attacking reinforcements, keeping hold of Mac Allister could prove just as important as any new signing they make before the transfer window closes.