Brighton and Hove Albion face a fight keeping hold of World Cup winner Alexis Mac Allister, who is reportedly wanted by Juventus.
Alexis Mac Allister’s father and representative Carlos has labelled Juventus “one of the most prestigious clubs in the world” amid growing speculation over the midfielder’s future.
Brighton and Hove Albion star Mac Allister is in demand after starting six of Argentina’s seven games in their triumphant 2022 World Cup campaign.
The 24-year-old signed a new three-year contract in October with an option for Brighton to extend it by a further year, but that has not done much to quell interest from elsewhere.
Premier League trio Liverpool, Arsenal and Chelsea have been linked, but Juventus are said to be the frontrunners to sign Mac Allister next year.
And Mac Alistero’s agent praised the Serie A giants as he gave an update on the former Boca Juniors loanee’s future on Thursday.
“Juventus is a huge club, one of the most prestigious in the world,” Carlos Mac Allister told Tuttomercato.
“All I can say is that together with [Brighton], we will analyze the offers we receive and then decide what happens with Alexis’ future.
“He is doing very well in England and is grateful to Brighton because they gave him the opportunity to play in Europe.
“However, we cannot provide a price, nor do we say who called us. We do not want to provide information that could jeopardize the immediate negotiations, if any.”
Mac Allister scored Argentina’s decisive goal in the group stage win against Poland and assisted Angelo Di Maria’s goal in the thrilling final against France.
The 14-capped midfielder has started 14 of Brighton’s 15 games this season, missing only the 3-1 win at Southampton on Monday, as he enjoys his post-World Cup break.
Discussing speculation surrounding Mac Allister earlier this month, Brighton chief executive Paul Barber said he was confident the club could keep hold of their prized asset.
“As we’ve always said, when players do well, when their profile rises, there’s always going to be interest in them,” Barber said.
“This will be no different; Alexis is no different. There was interest in him before the World Cup and I’m sure there will be more interest in him afterwards.”
“All we can do in situations where you have a big advantage is try to protect ourselves as best we can. We’ve done that with a few of our players and staff.”
“That’s all you can do in these situations. We hope Alexis will play for us for a while longer.”
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