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Sumeet Kavthale

Mac Allister Insurance Policy? Liverpool Plot Shock Swoop for Benched Barca Star Gavi

Liverpool

Liverpool are back on track after a slow start to their 2026-27 campaign. Andoni Iraola’s side has won their last five games across competitions and are firmly in the position to challenge for the Premier League and the Champions League title. While the focus remains on maintaining their resurgence under Iraola, the club is also looking to strengthen their squad, with one eye on the future.

One area that needs reinforcement at Anfield is midfield. Dominik Szoboszlai, Ryan Gravenberch and Alexis Mac Allister have been sharing the midfield duties since the beginning of last season, but additional depth could be required if they seriously want to compete with the likes of Arsenal and Manchester City, who significantly strengthened their midfield in the last summer transfer window.

In addition to the lack of depth in the midfield, uncertainty remains over Mac Allister’s future. The Argentine’s contract with Liverpool ends in summer 2028, and there are reported talks of a contract renewal. However, the club is looking to explore the market in case the 27-year-old attacking midfielder departs in the near future.

According to a recent report from Fichajes, Liverpool are considering a move for Barcelona midfielder Gavi ahead of the 2027 summer. The Spanish international is regarded as one of the highly-rated midfield talents in Europe and has emerged as a potential replacement for Mac Allister at Anfield.

Since Hansi Flick arrived at Camp Nou, the 22-year-old has proved his skills in different midfield options. However, the player‘s growth was hindered by a medial meniscus injury in September 2025. He returned to the pitch in March last year, but since then has struggled with form and lost his regular place at Barcelona.

Gavi hasn’t scored or produced an assist since his last return and is limited to only two starts this season. Rodri’s arrival at the Catalan giants has further reduced Gavi’s playing time, leading to questions over the latter’s future.

Meanwhile, Gavi’s situation at Barcelona has revived interest from the 20-time English champions, who reportedly tried to land him in 2022. The Merseyside champions, however, could face a significant challenge in signing Gavi, who still has over three years left in his contract with the Spanish champions. 

Barcelona are unlikely to offload one of their brightest youngsters on a discount fee. The move also depends on Mac Allister’s situation at Anfield. Liverpool have recently opened contract discussions with the former Brighton man, and would prioritise extending the player’s stay.

Alexis Mac Allister is enjoying his best season at Liverpool, scoring four goals in 13 appearances across competitions. His impressive run of form has garnered interest from Real Madrid, who are reportedly considering making a move for the Argentine in summer next year.

Meanwhile, Gavi could significantly improve Liverpool’s midfield with his aggression, work rate and skills to control the play from deep. At 22, Gavi could further improve his game under a Spanish coach at Anfield.

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