Chelsea ‘could pinch Alexis Mac Allister from under Liverpool’s nose with Mauricio Pochettino a big fan of compatriot’

CHELSEA could hijack Liverpool’s attempt to sign Alexis Mac Allister this summer, according to reports.

Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp is eager to bolster his midfield before the 2023-24 campaign kicks off.

GettyLiverpool want to sign Mac Allister from Brighton[/caption]

And World Cup winner Mac Allister has emerged as his top target.

According to transfer guru Fabrizio Romano, the Reds have already opened talks with the Brighton midfielder.

Personal terms are “almost agreed” but the deal is yet to be confirmed.

However, Romano also reports that Chelsea could swoop in to hijack a potential agreement.

Mauricio Pochettino, who is set to become the new permanent manager at Stamford Bridge, is understood to be a huge admirer of Mac Allister.

Manchester City, Manchester United and Arsenal have also expressed an interest in signing the Argentina international.

Brighton reportedly value him at around £70million, but the Seagulls could receive much more should a bidding war take place.

Liverpool are also keen on the prospect of signing Chelsea star Mason Mount and Wolves ace Matheus Nunes.

But Klopp has made it clear that the Reds will look to strengthen in all areas of the pitch, not just the midfield.

In a press conference on Friday, the 55-year-old said: “We look in all departments apart from goalkeeper at the moment.

“Yes, if there is a good one (defender) out there, I would not deny it. That’s all. We look at all areas of the pitch, definitely.”