Eliot Anderson on Liverpool’s Radar as Mac Allister Future Uncertain
Liverpool’s evolving midfield project could be entering its next chapter, with club officials reportedly monitoring Nottingham Forest’s Eliot Anderson as a potential long-term successor to Alexis Mac Allister. With speculation persisting around the Argentine’s future and Real Madrid maintaining a close interest, the Reds’ recruitment team, led by Richard Hughes, faces a strategic dilemma.
Mac Allister’s Ongoing Importance
Since arriving at Anfield from Brighton, Mac Allister has been integral to Liverpool’s rebuild. Under Arne Slot, he’s become a pivotal figure in dictating play from midfield, combining defensive awareness with a technical sharpness that allows him to influence both ends of the pitch.
Statistically, the 26-year-old remains one of Liverpool’s most complete midfielders. Last season, he led the squad with 3.29 tackles per 90 minutes among players featuring for more than 900 minutes, while also ranking fourth for shot-creating actions (4.15 per 90). That balance of aggression and creativity has been fundamental to Liverpool’s structure — and not easily replaced.
However, Mac Allister’s contract, which runs until 2028, hasn’t stopped European heavyweights from circling. Real Madrid, in particular, are said to admire his composure under pressure and tactical versatility. For Liverpool, the question is whether his potential sale could fund a new phase of recruitment — one that aligns with the club’s focus on youth and homegrown development.
Anderson Emerging as a Target
Step forward Eliot Anderson. The 23-year-old midfielder has been one of Nottingham Forest’s standout performers since moving from Newcastle United, quickly establishing himself as a dynamic and industrious presence in Steve Cooper’s (now Ange Postecoglou’s) side.
Anderson’s appeal lies in his adaptability. Comfortable operating as a box-to-box midfielder, he combines relentless pressing with a knack for creating chances. According to recent data, Anderson averaged 2.89 tackles and 3.84 shot-creating actions per 90 minutes over the past year — numbers not far from Mac Allister’s, despite playing in a less possession-dominant team.
That statistical parity has not gone unnoticed at Liverpool. His energy, versatility and homegrown status make him a logical candidate to step into the Argentine’s role should the need arise. Crucially, Anderson’s style mirrors what Slot values in his midfielders: technical quality blended with high work rate and tactical intelligence.
Price Tag Highlights Liverpool’s Dilemma
Reports from The Telegraph suggest Nottingham Forest would demand around £100 million for Anderson — a figure that reflects both his growing reputation and the premium placed on English talent. For Liverpool, such an investment would require significant justification, especially given the other areas of the squad that may soon need reinforcement.
Still, it’s a valuation that indicates how highly Anderson is regarded. At 23, he’s several years younger than Mac Allister and, with the right development, could evolve into one of England’s most well-rounded midfielders. For a club seeking to maintain long-term competitiveness under Slot, that kind of profile is invaluable.
Future Planning at Anfield
Liverpool’s approach under Hughes and Slot is built around forward planning. The recruitment team has consistently sought players capable of fitting into a fluid, high-intensity system — while also ensuring compliance with homegrown quotas. Should Mac Allister eventually depart, Anderson’s attributes and statistical output make him one of the most viable domestic options available.
It remains to be seen whether Liverpool will test Forest’s resolve. For now, Anderson’s emergence adds another name to the list of young midfielders admired by the Anfield hierarchy, while Mac Allister continues to anchor the side’s evolving identity. What’s clear is that Liverpool’s midfield evolution is far from complete, and the next major move could shape the club’s direction for years to come.
