Liverpool respond to news of Real Madrid pursuing a key midfielder.

Manager Andoni Iraola asserts Liverpool does not plan to let go of Alexis Mac Allister despite Real Madrid's pursuit, while disclosing the club's priority is to strengthen the squad to retain the Premier League crown.

Coach Andoni Iraola has officially spoken out regarding rumors surrounding Alexis Mac Allister's future, as the Argentine midfielder has been consistently monitored by Real Madrid. Additionally, the Spanish tactician did not hesitate to reveal the positions Liverpool needs to reinforce before the summer transfer window closes.

Mac Allister currently has two years left on his contract with the Anfield club, but after an impressive performance last season and a journey to the 2026 World Cup final with Argentina, he has become a target for many European giants, including Real Madrid.

However, Iraola confirms Liverpool has no intention of letting the 27-year-old star leave. "Alexis was one of Liverpool's best players last season and also had an excellent World Cup. When you have the best players, it's normal for other clubs to want them. But I want to keep my best players. What I look forward to more is bringing in new signings, not letting key players go," Iraola shared.

While determined to keep Mac Allister, the Liverpool coach also acknowledged the team still needs to continue upgrading the squad after the departures of Mohamed Salah, Andy Robertson, and Ibrahima Konate.

According to Iraola, the top priority now is to find a quality winger. "There are positions we definitely need to reinforce. The wing is the most obvious position; we must definitely recruit another winger. Other positions will depend on market developments, prices, and how we assess the current squad," he said.

Besides the transfer issue, Iraola also revealed that Liverpool is affected by some injury cases, forcing the coaching staff to carefully calculate before making final decisions on personnel.

Currently, Liverpool is on a tour of the United States to prepare for the new season. This is an opportunity for Iraola to test the lineup, evaluate new signings Jeremy Jacquet and Victor Munoz, as well as give young players a chance to shine. Meanwhile, Mac Allister is expected to join the squad soon after his post-World Cup break, ready to help Liverpool aim for the goal of defending the Premier League title in the 2026/27 season.