Brighton chief Paul Barber refuses to rule out Alexis Mac Allister exit

Brighton & Hove Albion CEO Paul Barber has refused to rule out a summer exit for Alexis Mac Allister.

The midfielder has been a key figure in the Brighton side this season, scoring 10 goals and providing two assists in 30 competitive appearances.

Mac Allister also showcased his talents on the biggest stage, featuring in six of Argentina's seven games in their 2022 World Cup triumph.

The Argentine's impressive performances for club and country have led to speculation of a possible summer departure despite signing a new contract in October until the summer of 2025 with an option of an additional year.

The player's father Carlos Mac Allister recently stated that he believes his son will leave the South-coast club at the end of the season.

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The likes of Manchester United, Liverpool and Chelsea are all showing an interest, and Brighton's CEO has admitted that he is unsure what will happen in the summer.

"With Alexis, we sat down before the World Cup with his father, Carlos, and his agent," the Barber told talkSPORT.

"That was about making sure Alexis was as settled as possible before the World Cup goal. And afterwards, we ensured he got back focused on the Premier League - to his credit he absolutely has done. Has performed very, very well.

"What the summer brings? We don't know. What we do know is our players will come under a lot of scrutiny and interest. And we will manage that, as we always do, when and if it happens."

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Barber was speaking ahead of Brighton's FA Cup semi-final against Man United, which ultimately ended in disappointment for the Seagulls.

Neither side was able to break the deadlock in 120 minutes of action, ensuring the identity of Manchester City's final opponents was decided by a penalty shootout.

Both teams were faultless from the spot until Solly March blazed over, allowing Victor Lindelof to dispatch the winning spot kick.

Brighton, who occupy eighth place in the Premier League table, will have to pick themselves up for Wednesday's away meeting with Nottingham Forest as they look to secure European football for next season.