Chelsea and Liverpool in 'battle of the giants' for World Cup winner

Tom Weber

• Updated: 10 Apr 2023 13:19 BST
• 3 min read

After battling to a 0-0 draw last week, Chelsea and Liverpool are set to battle in the transfer market for the signature of Alexis Mac Allister.

The Brighton star has been on an upward trajectory since signing for the Seagulls, playing a crucial role in Argentina's 2022 World Cup victory. Indeed, the 24-year-old has been one of this season's standout performers in the Premier League, chipping in with eight goals from midfield.

Unsurprisingly, then, his Estimated Transfer Value (ETV) has skyrocketed in recent times, especially since last fall. Between October and November 2022, his value increased from €8.3 million - little more than what Brighton paid for him in 2019 - to €22.8m, peaking in February at €33.2m.

READ: Man Utd shortlist in-demand Brighton pair

His Premier League form in conjuncture with his starring role at the World Cup has naturally aroused the interest of Europe's biggest sides, including Premier League giants. Indeed, Mac Allister has been linked with pretty much everyone from the Manchester clubs to Arsenal.

Now, reports in Spain suggest that two clubs have crystallised as the favourites to land the Argentine, and they are set to fight it out over his signature.

Chelsea and Liverpool to do battle

Spanish outlet Relevo has termed the transfer struggle between Liverpool and Chelsea a 'battle of giants.' According to the paper's sources, these two clubs are leading the race to prise the 24-year-old away from the South Coast.

"The Argentine is one of the most sought-after players for the next transfer period and - according to our information - there are two teams that have deepened their conversations in recent weeks." These two are Liverpool and Chelsea, both of whom are in the market for a new midfielder - though for different reasons.

READ: Arsenal sent Caicedo ‘expectation’ message – but Romano warns of Chelsea and Liverpool

Liverpool want to completely overhaul their ageing centre of the park, whereas Chelsea are looking for a partner for record-arrival Enzo Fernandez, and rather than bringing in someone completely unfamiliar, why not reunite the two world champions?