Darren Bent has taken a swipe at Liverpool’s first summer signing Alexis Mac Allister.
The former Aston Villa striker has expressed dissatisfaction with Liverpool’s acquisition of Alexis Mac Allister.
The Reds announced the signing of the Argentina midfielder from Brighton on Thursday, putting pen to paper on a five-year deal after completing his medical.
Mac Allister becomes Jurgen Klopp’s first summer signing and arrives on the back of 112 appearances and 20 goals for the Seagulls across all competitions.
“Is he what you [Liverpool] need though?” Bent asked. “Don’t get me wrong, I like him,” Bent told talkSPORT.
“I think he’s very good. He can’t run. What’s Liverpool’s midfield problem? You’ve got no legs.
“Don’t get me wrong, he’s an unbelievable midfielder but when I think of Liverpool in the past and what made you so successful, there are people like Wijnaldum that were rattling around like pace, pace, pace in the middle of the park.”
Mac Allister was ever-present for Roberto De Zerbi’s side last season as they finished sixth in the Premier League to qualify for Europe for the first time in their history.
The South American recorded 12 goals and registered three assists in 40 appearances in all competitions for Brighton.
According to Opta Joe, Mac Allister was the only player in the 2022/23 Premier League (who recorded at least 1,000 minutes) to average at least two shots, two tackles and 50 passes per 90 minutes.
The 24-year-old was a central figure for Argentina as they defeated France 4-2 on penalties after a 3-3 draw to win the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, making six appearances and scoring once against Poland.
