Premier League-winning defender Martin Keown has tipped Alexis Mac Allister to do well at Liverpool.
The Argentine's proposed move to Anfield edges closer as the ECHO understands that there is hope that the deal for the Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder can be concluded before he joins up with Argentina.
Should the formalities be complete, the 24-year-old would become the first summer addition for the Reds as Jurgen Klopp looks to reinforce his midfield options following the departure of three midfielders. Mac Allister has enjoyed a rise to prominence in recent months after winning the World Cup with his nation and securing Europa League football for the Seagulls.
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Manchester City had been keeping tabs on the midfielder with Liverpool earmarking the Argentine international after their pursuit of Jude Bellingham was shelved. Roberto De Zerbi conceded that both Mac Allister and midfield partner Moises Caicedo would leave after their season ended with a defeat to Aston Villa.
While contrasting reports continue to surface surrounding the price that the Seagulls could pocket from the move, Keown believes it's another piece of good business from the Reds.
"I think he is an outstanding player. We saw that during the World Cup. When (Lionel) Messi came deep, he was flying forward. He operates very intelligently," he told talkSPORT.
"Great technique, an eye for goal. (He will be) a really top signing. Good business again. It’s not a ‘steal’ but I think it is worth paying for a player of his quality. It's healthy, in a way, that Brighton are letting him move on.
“He will do well there. He gives (Liverpool) a bit more backbone and quality.”
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