Liverpool shift transfer focus from Jude Bellingham to Brighton midfielder Alexis Mac Allister - Paper Round

Liverpool lead Mac Allister race Liverpool are preparing a summer bid for Brighton midfielder Alexis Mac Allister as Jurgen Klopp attempts to strengthen the midfield options in his squad. The Reds have withdrawn from the race to sign Borussia Dortmund midfielder Jude Bellingham and have identified Mac Allister as their top target. The World Cup winner recently signed a new contract with Brighton, so will not come cheap.

Ad The Telegraph reports: «Mac Allister, 24, has been identified as a target for Klopp after four seasons at the Amex Stadium. TransfersWhere could Messi go if he leaves PSG — Barcelona, Saudi Arabia, Miami?11 HOURS AGO »Mac Allister is also on Manchester United's shortlist, with Erik ten Hag eager to improve his midfield this summer. Mac Allister also has a link at Newcastle, as their sporting director Dan Ashworth signed him at Brighton.

«Klopp has been assessing which midfielders to pursue for the summer window. It is an area he wants to strengthen and has also looked at Holland international Ryan Gravenberch at Bayern Munich. Real Madrid are in advanced talks to sign Bellingham, after Liverpool withdrew their interest as they decided they could not afford to sign the midfielder.» Bellingham battle continues The battle to sign Jude Bellingham is far from over, despite reports in Spain on Wednesday stating that Real Madrid were close to agreeing a deal with Borussia Dortmund for the 19-year-old.

Real Madrid are more confident of completing a deal to sign Bellingham, but have not negotiated a transfer fee for the wonderkid. The Athletic confirms: «Madrid sources denied to The Athletic that an agreement or even an agreement in principle with Borussia Dortmund has been reached. Other sources close to the