Design 1 - 2026-08-27T200101.131
Liverpool have finally agreed on a deal with Paris Saint-Germain for Bradley Barcola and must now turn their attention to replacing Alexis Mac Allister.
The Reds have pursued Barcola throughout the summer and have reached an agreement with PSG to sign the French winger for £120 million, including add-ons. He doesn't look likely to be the last signing made by the Anfield outfit before the transfer window closes next Tuesday (September 1st).
Signing a new central midfielder for Andoni Iraola is now on the transfer chiefs' to-do list, and there is an obvious solution in their sights. Mac Allister's performances have been a cause for concern over the past year, and it's time to move on from the Argentine.
Liverpool Must Swoop For Alex Scott
via Reuters
Iraola was a massive hit at Bournemouth because of his ability to develop players and ensure they fulfill their potential. Alex Scott is one of the stars who shone the brightest under the Spaniard, and the young English midfielder's future has been the subject of speculation this summer.
Scott has become one of the Cherries' most important players and starred at the Vitality Stadium last season. His impressive displays helped Iraola guide the South Coast outfit to Europa League qualification and also ensured his name is linked with the Premier League's big guns.
Iraola gave a glowing verdict of Scott last season, explaining what qualities he brings to his team:
Liverpool have reportedly made Scott their top target after agreeing on a deal for Barcola. The main issue is that Iraola's former employers are demanding £90 million for their midfielder.
That fee could prove too much for the Reds as they also intend to continue pursuing Crystal Palace's Ismaila Sarr. They failed with a £50m bid for the Senegalese winger but are still looking to bring him to Anfield.
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Alex Scott (Premier League 2025-26)
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If it comes down to a choice between the pair, Scott is arguably the more important acquisition given Mac Allister's unconvincing form. His drop in performance has had a knock-on effect on Ryan Gravenberch, who looked the real deal for the first half of last season.
There were clear issues in midfield during a 2-2 draw against Newcastle United last Sunday. It's an area that needs to be addressed before the window closes, and Scott ticks all the boxes, not least because of his experience playing under Iraola.
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Fees correct prior to summer 2026
Scott Is A Must Before Deadline Day
Alex Scott
Scott is still only 23 and looks set to become a regular for England in the years to come after nearly making Thomas Tuchel's World Cup squad. While signing high-profile players such as Barcola from abroad makes sense, there is a need to factor in Premier League experience when strengthening in midfield.
There's little to no risk in reuniting Iraola with the former Bristol City youngster who has shown maturity beyond his years. He's a special talent who could help take the Reds back to title contention.
Bradley Barcola Liverpool
Bradley Barcola Liverpool
With just days until deadline day, time is running out for the Merseysiders to replace Mac Allister. They have left it late, but they will end up regretting a clear problem that could prevent their new manager from seamlessly implementing his brand of football in his debut season.