Tottenham are reportedly in the mix to sign Brighton star and World Cup champion Alexis Mac Allister in January – and Jermaine Jenas gave his verdict on the midfielder during BBC’s coverage of the World Cup final on Sunday afternoon.
Mac Allister, 23, lasted 116 minutes as Argentina and France played out one of the most-enthralling World Cup finals in the history of the game. A blockbuster that ended in Argentina winning the game on penalties at the Lusail Stadium.
Argentina stole a march early on – Lionel Messi scoring a penalty. Then, a brilliant move saw Mac Allister set up Angel Di Maria. But from nothing, late on, France got back into it. A quick-fire brace from Kylian Mbappe did the trick.
In extra-time, Messi made it 3-2 – but Mbappe did it again, converting another penalty after winning the spot-kick himself. Eventually, Argentina won – and Messi finally winning the trophy that has eluded him throughout his career.
Mac Allister was an unused sub in the 2-1 loss to Saudi Arabia but started Argentina’s next six games. Two assists, and Italian outlet L’Interesta claim it has interested Spurs. Inter Milan, Juventus and Atletico Madrid are also on his radar.
Jenas gave his take on Mac Allister’s form at the World Cup during his role as co-commentator on BBC Sport. He said: “He looks really settled, had a great tournament – looks absolutely top drawer in this Argentina midfield.”
Tottenham in mix to sign Mac Allister and Jenas has given his verdict
If it was not clear before, Mac Allister would be a stunning signing for Tottenham. Not least because he has sparkled in Lionel Scaloni’s Argentina side, but because Spurs need exactly the type of midfielder he is. A bit of a playmaker.
One that can get forward and score goals, but his ball retention is also very strong. Having him in the side would allow the creative aspect of Tottenham’s side not rely so heavily on Harry Kane and Dejan Kulusevski moving forward.
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