Liverpool’s summer rebuild under Andoni Iraola is gathering pace, with midfield shaping up as one of the most important areas of focus ahead of the 2026/27 season. After a disappointing campaign that saw the Reds finish outside the top four, the new head coach has been tasked with reshaping a squad that clearly lacked balance and consistency.Iraola’s arrival has already changed the direction of recruitment strategy at Anfield, with a stronger emphasis expected on intensity, pressing and physicality in midfield. That shift has immediately influenced the type of players being linked with the club ahead of the transfer window.One of the most discussed names in recent weeks has been Alex Scott, the Bournemouth midfielder who previously worked under Iraola at the Vitality Stadium. His technical quality and work rate make him an obvious fit on paper, and early reports suggested Liverpool’s interest was strong.However, journalist David Lynch has indicated that while Scott remains on the radar, he is not necessarily the top priority for Liverpool this summer. Instead, attention appears to be shifting towards other profiles who may better suit the club’s long-term midfield rebuild.According to Lynch, Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton is viewed internally as a more likely target. The England international has developed a reputation for composure under pressure, intelligent passing and control in deeper midfield areas, all qualities Liverpool are believed to value highly.Wharton’s valuation is expected to be in the region of £80m, which would represent a significant investment, but Liverpool’s recruitment team are understood to be open to making a statement signing in midfield if the right opportunity presents itself.The situation in midfield is further complicated by uncertainty surrounding existing players in the squad. Several Liverpool midfielders underperformed last season, contributing to the inconsistency that ultimately cost the club a top-four finish.Among them is Alexis Mac Allister, whose form dipped noticeably compared to his strong debut season at Anfield. The Argentine World Cup winner is still highly rated internally, but speculation about his long-term future has begun to grow.Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has suggested that Liverpool could consider offers in the region of £55m for Mac Allister if suitable proposals arrive this summer. While no decision has been made, the possibility of a midfield reshuffle is now being seriously discussed behind the scenes.Romano also stressed that Mac Allister is not actively pushing for a move and remains part of Liverpool’s plans for now. However, he acknowledged that interest from major European clubs could change the situation if formal bids are made.Atlético Madrid and Real Madrid are among the clubs monitoring developments, with both sides believed to admire the midfielder’s tactical intelligence and experience at the highest level.If Mac Allister were to leave, it would significantly increase the urgency for Liverpool to strengthen in midfield, potentially accelerating moves for players like Wharton or alternative targets identified by Iraola and the recruitment team.Even without departures, Liverpool are expected to bring in at least one midfielder as part of a wider squad refresh. The demands of Iraola’s system require high-energy profiles capable of pressing aggressively while also contributing technically in possession.Alex Scott remains a name appreciated by Liverpool due to his familiarity with Iraola’s methods and his Premier League experience. However, the evolving picture suggests he may now be one option among several rather than the clear first choice.As the window approaches, Liverpool’s midfield strategy appears to be shifting towards a more ambitious and physically dominant profile of player. Whether that leads to Wharton, Scott, or an unexpected alternative, the rebuild in the middle of the pitch looks set to be one of the defining themes of Iraola’s first summer in charge
