In Liverpool Transfer News, the Reds have emerged as frontrunners to land Alexis Mac Allister, with his Brighton team-mates believing the midfielder is destined for Anfield.

The 24-year-old, integral in Argentina winning the World Cup, has suitors from across Europe after two stellar seasons on the south coast.

The expectation is that Mac Allister will seal a move this summer and his father and representative, Carlos, is handling the negotiations.

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.

Should Liverpool manage to secure Mac Allister, it will act as a significant boost for manager Jurgen Klopp, who wants an overhaul in that area of the pitch.

In other Liverpool news, the Reds pulled out of the race for Borussia Dortmund’s Jude Bellingham, who Real Madrid are confident of signing, but want fresh faces to reenergise an ageing squad.

Mac Allister has caught the eye with 10 goals and two assists from midfield for the Seagulls in all competitions. 

And they are set to face stern competition from their most bitter rivals, with reports linking Erik ten Hag’s Manchester United to the player in April. 

Both sides are thought to be considering midfield rebuilds, with the Red Devils reportedly keen on bringing in greater creativity to their unit. 

The 24-year-old is still under contract at the club until 2025, with Brighton retaining an option to extend that deal by a further year, which could lead to the Reds requiring a substantial fee to prise him away from the Amex Stadium.