Liverpool have initiated contact with Monaco regarding winger Maghnes Akliouche. The France international is also a target for Paris Saint-Germain, who have reportedly had multiple offers for the player rejected by Monaco.
Reports indicate that PSG‘s most recent offer for Akliouche was in the region of £34m (€40m), but this figure was deemed unacceptable by Monaco. The 24-year-old is considered a prime target for the Ligue 1 champions.
Liverpool‘s interest in Akliouche comes as the club seeks to reinforce its attacking options, particularly on the wing, following Mohamed Salah‘s departure. New head coach Andoni Iraola has publicly stated the need for further reinforcements, specifically mentioning the requirement for another winger.
Iraola, speaking ahead of a pre-season friendly, emphasised the importance of remaining open to new options in the transfer market. He noted that while some positions, such as a winger, clearly require new signings, other situations would depend on market availability, cost, and the assessment of existing players within the squad. He also mentioned that some positions have injured players, creating a less than ideal situation.
Akliouche, who can operate on the right wing or as an attacking midfielder, made 31 appearances in Ligue 1 last season. During these appearances, he scored six goals and provided six assists. He was also part of the France squad for the World Cup third-place play-off, where he was on the bench for their match against England.
Competition for Wingers
The pursuit of Akliouche highlights a potential transfer battle between Liverpool and PSG, who have both been active in the market for wingers this summer. Both clubs had previously shown interest in RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande. While Liverpool were reportedly willing to pay £86m for Diomande, RB Leipzig was said to be open to selling him for an estimated £112m. Recent reports suggest that Diomande is now prioritising a move to PSG.
Liverpool had also identified PSG winger Bradley Barcola as a potential option to strengthen their attacking department. However, securing Barcola could prove challenging due to competition from other clubs and PSG‘s reported demands. One report suggested that PSG might seek more than £120m (€141m) for Barcola.
The club has already secured the signing of Victor Munoz from Osasuna. However, Iraola’s comments underscore the ongoing need to bolster the squad, particularly in wide attacking areas. The club is exploring various options, with Akliouche now emerging as a key target.
Akliouche has made 10 senior appearances for France, scoring one goal. He has also accumulated over 100 senior appearances for Monaco, playing 139 times, scoring 23 goals, and providing 28 assists.
Monaco’s Stance
Monaco has consistently rejected offers for Akliouche, including multiple bids from PSG. This suggests that Liverpool will need to meet Monaco’s valuation to secure the winger’s services. Despite PSG reportedly being in advanced talks earlier this month and expressing optimism about reaching an agreement, no deal has been finalised.
The interest from both Liverpool and PSG indicates the high regard in which Akliouche is held. His profile is seen as aligning with Liverpool‘s transfer strategy for reinforcing their forward areas. The situation remains fluid as both clubs continue their efforts to sign the 24-year-old.
Liverpool‘s initial approach for Akliouche comes after they already secured the signing of Victor Munoz.
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Source: skysports.com
