CHELSEA are leading the race to sign Brighton star Alexis Mac Allister, according to reports.
The attacking midfielder impressed for Argentina at the World Cup in Qatar.
Mac Allister, 24, played a significant role as Lionel Messi and Co won the tournament – setting up Angel Di Maria’s stunning goal in the final.
The in-demand star is under contract at Brighton until 2025, with the South Coast side possessing an option to extend the deal by a further year.
This hasn’t stopped would-be suitors circling, with Mac Allister receiving plenty of interest.
According to Argentine outlet TyC Sports, Chelsea are at the front of the queue for his signature, under his former Seagulls boss Graham Potter.
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However, they will have to battle further interest from Arsenal and Atletico Madrid to get a deal over the line.
TyC reporter Gaston Edul adds that a transfer is likely to have to take place in the summer, with Brighton intending to keep their star asset until the end of the season.
He claims that the deal could go ahead in June.
Tottenham have also been linked with a move for Mac Allister.
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Their interest in him is said to pre-date the World Cup, although his value is likely to have skyrocketed since.
Mac Allister joined Brighton from Argentinos Juniors in January 2019.
He subsequently enjoyed a loan spell back at his former club, before temporarily joining Boca Juniors.
Since breaking into the Brighton first team he has made 86 appearances, scoring 13 goals and laying on six assists.
Five of his strikes have come in 14 Prem outings this term.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
