Report: Man City tried to sign 24-year-old Liverpool player this summer, Julian Ward stopped them

This summer, both Manchester City and Chelsea attempted to secure the signature of Liverpool midfielder Alexis Mac Allister.

Mac Allister, Liverpool’s first signing of the transfer window in June, arrived from Brighton in an impressive deal.

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Klopp’s Priority

Jurgen Klopp, Liverpool’s manager, had reportedly prioritized Mac Allister after missing out on Jude Bellingham, who joined Real Madrid.

The Liverpool ECHO revealed that the transfer wasn’t straightforward, with both City and Chelsea showing keen interest.

Julian Ward: A Pivotal Figure

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Outgoing sporting director Julian Ward played a pivotal role in ensuring Mac Allister chose Anfield over the Etihad or Stamford Bridge.

Klopp’s influence was also crucial in persuading the World Cup winner to opt for Liverpool’s red jersey.

Ward’s parting gift of bringing Mac Allister to Liverpool appears to be a successful one.

In the Words of Carlos Mac Allister…

According to his father Carlos – speaking to the ECHO – Liverpool were the only choice he wanted for his son this summer.

“The reason why Alexis went to Liverpool is because they showed so much interest in having him on their team.

They showed a desire to count on him and we wanted Alexis to go to a team where he could be settled for the start of pre-season; move on the first day of the transfer window – all that stuff.

This was so important because we wanted him to have a good preparation with the team he decided to sign with.

Alexis Mac Allister to his brother Kevin ahead of the Europa League clash:

"Hopefully you don't enjoy it, I want you to suffer. I've played at Anfield away and as a Liverpool player. I will tell you, as an away player, you will feel the stadium and the crowd." pic.twitter.com/lUt14vXMUL

— Anfield Sector (@AnfieldSector) October 4, 2023

Jurgen Klopp was crucial a figure in the transfer. He was talking with Alexis. When he received the phone call from Jurgen it was important in deciding which team he should choose to play for.

Already Alexis likes to work with Jurgen, and Jurgen likes to work with Alexis. I think that is very important for a player to train at a place where you feel loved, and also your trainer and mates trust you at every moment.”

Alexis is Fitting in

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Although Mac Allister initially adapted to an unfamiliar holding midfield role, he is gradually finding his footing in a top-tier club.

It’s evident that Mac Allister and his family were wholeheartedly committed to Liverpool, and his determination suggests a long-lasting association with Anfield.

This transfer saga leaves Manchester City’s Pep Guardiola with little to do but lament the missed opportunity.

Liverpool have clearly secured a bright talent for the future in the Argentine Wolrd Cup winner.