Manchester United could offer one of their own stars in exchange for Alexis Mac Allister.
Manchester United may have an advantage in their pursuit of Brighton star Alexis Mac Allister in the summer, as Erik ten Hag steps up his attempts to sign a midfielder. The Red Devils have been forced to overhaul their system following the recent absences of Christian Eriksen and Casemiro, something the Dutch boss is hoping to avoid next season.
United are reportedly eyeing up both Mac Allister and Moises Caicedo from Brighton, though both players could cost as much as £140million. With United also eyeing up a marquee striker for Ten Hag such as Harry Kane or Victor Osimhen, funds may be tight especially if the Glazer family do not approve a potential takeover of the club.
With Ten Hag reportedly labelling midfield a priority position to improve this summer, in addition to a new striker, a way to offset a huge pricetag could be to include one of United’s stars in exchange. If Brighton are to potentially lose both Caicedo and Mac Allister, they would be left short in the middle of the pitch and would almost certainly look to bring in midfield reinforcements.
They could be losing an all-action midfielder and a playmaker, but the blow could be softened if United offered Scott McTominay during negotiations for the pair. The Scot has been linked with a move away from the club, after falling down the pecking order following the signings of Casemiro and Eriksen.
Manchester United have been linked with a move for Alexis Mac Allister. (Image: Getty)
Despite his goal in the 2-0 win over Everton on Saturday, it is likely that the 26-year-old would see his gametime reduced further if either of the Brighton pair make the move to Old Trafford.
There are reports that he has been put on the chopping block as United would have midfield options of Casemiro, Eriksen, Fred, potentially one or both of Caicedo and Mac Allister and even Marcel Sabitzer if the Red Devils opt to sign the Austrian on a permanent deal.
Scott McTominay celebrating his goal for Manchester United against Everton. (Image: Getty)
With a potential glut of midfielders at Old Trafford, McTominay may consider moving elsewhere and Newcastle have been mentioned as a potential landing spot. However, reports have claimed that United have set an asking price of £50m for the Scotland international, which could deter Eddie Howe’s outfit and open the door to Brighton.
His recent exploits for his country have shown that he can be a capable goalscoring force also, something that may appeal to Roberto De Zerbi’s outfit.
At 26, McTominay could be keen to secure first-team football which is unlikely at United – having made just 10 Premier League starts so far this campaign. He would also get the chance to work under De Zerbi, who has taken English football by storm and Brighton would secure necessary midfield reinforcements if Caicedo and Mac Allister do move on.
