Liverpool Told to Consider Major Midfield Sale

Liverpool’s midfield plans remain difficult to predict as the club enters the final month of the summer transfer window.

Despite links to Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton, any significant addition currently appears dependent on Liverpool creating space through a major departure. Speaking on the latest edition of Media Matters for Anfield Index, Dave Davis and David Lynch discussed the uncertain futures of Alexis Mac Allister and Curtis Jones, while assessing whether Wharton could yet emerge as a realistic target.

The central message was clear. Liverpool admire Wharton, but their existing midfield numbers mean somebody must leave before the club can seriously consider another expensive signing.

Liverpool Have Too Many Midfielders

Liverpool’s immediate priorities remain strengthening in attack and defence. Midfield recruitment is viewed differently because the squad is already crowded with central options.

Lynch explained that Liverpool could still spend heavily this summer, but the extent of their business will be dictated by sales.

“Does Gakpo go? Does Jones go? Does McAllister go? All of a sudden then, summer will become very big spending. There will be a lot of kind of turnover and change in the squad.”

The problem is that Liverpool cannot control whether suitable offers arrive.

“Are Inter going to do something about Curtis Jones? You can’t say at the moment,” Lynch added.

Until movement begins, Liverpool appear unlikely to add another starting quality midfielder to an already congested department.

Mac Allister Future Remains Uncertain

Alexis Mac Allister’s situation was discussed with particular concern.

Lynch questioned the Argentine’s physical condition following a difficult campaign and suggested Liverpool may need to consider a sale if an appropriate opportunity emerges.

“I think they should push Mac Allister out the door if they can because I think I’m concerned about where he’s up to physically.”

Mac Allister remains one of Liverpool’s most talented midfielders, but the conversation reflected genuine uncertainty over his future role under Andoni Iraola.

Lynch also noted that Liverpool are still waiting to see “where Alexis Mac Allister is up to”, having observed “so many signs of physical decline last season”.

A departure would create both financial room and a clear space in the team for a replacement.

Curtis Jones Decision May Be Required

Curtis Jones represents another possible route towards reshaping the midfield.

Interest from Inter has been repeatedly mentioned, although there remains no certainty that the Italian club will follow that admiration with a suitable offer.

Lynch suggested Liverpool may also need to make a contractual decision.

“If Jones isn’t going to sign a new contract, you maybe just have to make a decision there.”

The discussion followed Jones appearing frustrated after Liverpool’s pre-season victory over Wrexham. Lynch dismissed suggestions that the incident indicated an imminent departure, believing it was more likely connected to events during the match, possibly involving the captain’s armband.

However, the wider uncertainty surrounding Jones remains. Liverpool would sell at the right price, but they require another club to make the first serious move.

Adam Wharton Still Admired by Liverpool

Adam Wharton remains a player Liverpool clearly appreciate, but his valuation has complicated matters.

“It always felt with Wharton that Liverpool clearly liked him,” Davis said, before noting that the wider midfield market had driven prices upwards.

Lynch also questioned whether Wharton is an ideal stylistic fit for Iraola.

“Do they see him as someone who can get about the pitch enough and do the defensive work to be an Iraola midfielder? I’m not entirely sure.”

Even so, the possibility has not been completely ruled out.

“If Mac Allister goes, maybe there’s an opening there for Wharton to come in,” Lynch explained.

That appears to be the defining condition. Liverpool do not currently need another midfielder in numerical terms, regardless of Wharton’s ability.

Lynch would welcome more passing quality in the side, but admitted Liverpool must first resolve their existing squad.

“It’s going to be quiet at the moment with Liverpool because they need to shift midfielders. And until that happens, then maybe there’s a chance that Wharton just ends up at Chelsea anyway.”

Liverpool’s interest in Adam Wharton therefore remains alive in theory, but any deal depends on an important exit. Should Mac Allister or Jones leave, the situation could quickly change. Until then, Liverpool’s midfield plans are likely to remain on hold.