Manchester United Might Try to Sign Liverpool Player Alexis Mac Allister

News reports say Manchester United might try to sign Alexis Mac Allister from Liverpool. This would be a very surprising move because these two teams are big rivals. It is not likely to happen.
By Newsroom | Football, England |

The potential transfer of Alexis Mac Allister from Liverpool to Manchester United is reportedly being considered, a move that would mark a significant and historic shift in player movement between the two fiercely competitive clubs. This contemplation by Manchester United, if it were to materialize, would represent an audacious bid to strengthen their midfield and address current team needs during the upcoming summer transfer window.

Background of the Rumor

Reports circulating on February 16, 2026, indicate that Manchester United are exploring the possibility of signing Liverpool midfielder Alexis Mac Allister. This interest arises as Manchester United seeks to reinforce their midfield, particularly with Casemiro reportedly set to leave the club at the end of his contract.

Transfer rumors, news: Man United eye shock move for Liverpool's Mac Allister - 1

The notion of Mac Allister transferring from Liverpool to Manchester United is described as a "shock" or "ambitious" move due to the intense rivalry between the two football clubs. Historically, such direct transfers between these rivals have been rare, with the last notable instance being Phil Chisnall moving from Manchester United to Liverpool.

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  • Key Takeaway: Manchester United are reportedly considering a "shock" move for Liverpool's Alexis Mac Allister, a highly unlikely transfer due to club rivalry.

Evidence of Manchester United's Interest

Several media outlets have reported on Manchester United's potential pursuit of Mac Allister:

Transfer rumors, news: Man United eye shock move for Liverpool's Mac Allister - 2

  • Liverpool Echo stated that Manchester United are plotting an "ambitious" move for the midfielder, acknowledging the "highly improbable" nature of such a transfer given the club rivalry.

  • Goal.com, as seen on AOL, also mentioned Manchester United plotting a "shock move."

  • ESPN reported that Manchester United are considering a "shock move" for Mac Allister, alongside other transfer rumors.

  • Sky Sports noted that Manchester United are weighing up a "shock raid on bitter rivals Liverpool" for the player, as detailed in their paper talk.

  • CaughtOffside highlighted the "highly improbable" nature of a direct transfer, despite Manchester United's reported interest from The Mirror.

  • GiveMeSport described the potential move as "stunning" and mentioned that Mac Allister's consistent performances could make him a valuable acquisition if United build their midfield around him. The report also noted that Jurgen Klopp was a fan of Mac Allister.

  • Daily Star exclusively reported that Manchester United are considering a "stunning swoop" for the midfielder, noting that Old Trafford chiefs are monitoring his situation.

  • Key Takeaway: Multiple reputable sports news outlets are reporting Manchester United's contemplation of signing Alexis Mac Allister.

Factors Influencing the Potential Transfer

Several factors appear to be shaping the discussion around this potential transfer:

Manchester United's Midfield Needs

Manchester United is actively looking to strengthen its midfield for the summer. The potential departure of Casemiro at the end of his contract creates a clear need for reinforcement in that area. Mac Allister's technical ability, versatility, and intelligence are seen as qualities that could enhance Manchester United's midfield control and balance.

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Transfer rumors, news: Man United eye shock move for Liverpool's Mac Allister - 3

Alexis Mac Allister's Situation at Liverpool

While Mac Allister has been a key player for Liverpool, reports suggest speculation about his future has intensified, particularly with changes in management. However, the summary from CaughtOffside notes that his form has "fluctuated under Arne Slot," which could be a point of consideration.

The Challenge of Club Rivalry

  • The rivalry between Liverpool and Manchester United is frequently cited as the primary obstacle to such a transfer.

  • Liverpool Echo described the move as a "task that appears highly improbable at this stage, due to the bitter rivalry between the two clubs."

  • CaughtOffside reiterated that a direct transfer "remains highly improbable."

  • Daily Star acknowledged that tempting Mac Allister away from Anfield "would represent an enormous challenge for United, given the intense rivalry."

  • Insight: The historical and intense rivalry between Liverpool and Manchester United is a significant barrier to any direct transfer of a player between the two clubs.

Champions League Qualification

The Daily Star report suggests that Manchester United's chances of securing a player of Mac Allister's caliber are contingent on their qualification for the Champions League this season. This implies that a lack of European elite competition football could diminish their appeal to top players.

Co-Owner's Ambition

Sir Jim Ratcliffe, co-owner of Manchester United, is reportedly keen on keeping "all possibilities on the table" and would be interested in signing Mac Allister should he become available, despite the significant odds against it.

Historical Precedents

The article from Liverpool Echo and CaughtOffside both reference Phil Chisnall as the last player to make the controversial switch from Manchester United to Liverpool. This historical event underscores the rarity and significance of such a cross-city transfer.

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  • Historical Note: Phil Chisnall's transfer from Manchester United to Liverpool is noted as a rare precedent for direct player movement between the two clubs.

Conclusion and Implications

The reports suggest that Manchester United is contemplating a move for Alexis Mac Allister. While the interest appears to be present, the obstacles, particularly the profound rivalry between the clubs and the need for Champions League qualification, render the transfer highly improbable at this juncture. Should such a move ever gain traction, it would undoubtedly be one of the most talked-about and significant transfers in English football history. The reported interest, however, remains at the level of rumor and speculation, without any confirmed actions or negotiations.

  • Summary of Findings: Manchester United is reportedly considering a "shock" transfer for Liverpool's Alexis Mac Allister, driven by midfield needs and potential player availability. However, intense club rivalry and qualification for the Champions League are significant barriers, making the move highly improbable.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Are Manchester United really trying to sign Alexis Mac Allister?
Reports say they are thinking about it, but it is not confirmed.
Q: Why would this transfer be surprising?
Manchester United and Liverpool are very strong rivals. Players rarely move directly between them.
Q: Is this transfer likely to happen?
No, it is seen as very unlikely because of the big rivalry between the clubs.
Q: Does Manchester United need new players?
Yes, they are looking to get stronger in the midfield area for next season.