talkSPORT Presenter Urges Liverpool to Replace Mac Allister with Wharton
Broadcaster suggests selling Alexis Mac Allister to fund Crystal Palace star’s acquisition, citing structural vulnerabilities exposed in recent defeat to Monaco.
Liverpool’s transfer activity this window has been characterised by the arrival of Jeremy Jacquet, Ronald Araujo, and Victor Munoz, alongside the return of Harvey Elliott. Despite these additions, talkSPORT presenter Darragh MacAnthony has urged the club to prioritise the signing of Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton before the transfer window closes. The recommendation centres on addressing perceived deficiencies in midfield balance and authority.
MacAnthony argued that the squad requires a long-term anchor, suggesting that Alexis Mac Allister’s physical capabilities have diminished. He stated that Mac Allister’s form appeared to decline outside of international duty with Argentina, describing the midfielder’s legs as "gone" during the previous season. The presenter proposed that selling Mac Allister could fund the acquisition of the 22-year-old Wharton, who is valued at up to £100 million.
The call for a midfield overhaul follows Liverpool’s defeat to Monaco, which highlighted structural vulnerabilities within the squad. MacAnthony noted that the team became open and lost control after holding a two-goal lead, a scenario he attributed to a lack of midfield authority rather than mere concentration issues. He described Wharton as a player capable of anchoring the side for the next seven to eight years, citing his ability to read danger and recycle possession quickly.
While Wharton is not characterised as a traditional destroyer, MacAnthony emphasised the modern demands of the position, which require calmness and tactical intelligence. The presenter suggested that Wharton’s profile, combined with his strong Premier League experience, makes him a suitable replacement for a player he views as past his physical prime. The valuation of up to £100 million was presented as a necessary investment for long-term stability.
However, the feasibility of such a move remains uncertain. The report notes that Liverpool are also linked with a costly move for Bradley Barcola, which could compete for financial resources. Furthermore, the suggestion to sell Mac Allister is viewed by some as dramatic, given the player’s established status. With the window nearing its end, the likelihood of Liverpool committing to a £100 million deal for Wharton while managing other significant expenditures appears low.
