Liverpool have made their opening move to sign Monaco winger Maghnes Akliouche, targeting the French international as a long-term replacement for Mohamed Salah. The Reds have checked on the 22-year-old's availability following Salah's departure, though they face stiff competition from Paris Saint-Germain, who have already submitted multiple rejected bids for the talented attacker.
PSG's Failed Pursuit Opens Door for Liverpool
PSG have aggressively pursued Akliouche throughout the transfer window without success. The Ligue 1 champions' most recent offer, valued at approximately £34 million, was swiftly rejected by Monaco, who have shown no willingness to negotiate below their valuation. This stubborn stance from the French club has encouraged Liverpool to accelerate their interest and make a formal approach.
Since emerging from Monaco's academy in 2021, Akliouche has established himself as a key attacking midfielder. The winger's record speaks for itself: 23 goals across 139 appearances for the principality club. His most recent campaign proved particularly impressive, yielding seven goals and ten assists from 43 matches in all competitions before he featured for France at the World Cup.
Squad Reinforcements a Priority for Iraola
New Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola has made clear that widening attacking options is essential. Speaking ahead of the Sunderland friendly, the manager stated: "We definitely need to sign a winger. You have to always be open to new options to improve the squad." This candid assessment underscores the club's determination to strengthen their flanks after losing Salah's consistent output.
Liverpool's pursuit of Akliouche follows a stalled move for RB Leipzig's Yan Diomande, with the Reds unwilling to meet the German club's £112 million asking price. The club has already invested £34.5 million in Victor Munoz from Osasuna but recognizes additional firepower is needed across their attacking line.
With PSG continuing to monitor developments, Liverpool must act decisively to convince Monaco that their bid deserves serious consideration. The race for Akliouche's signature will intensify as the transfer window enters its final phase, with the winger representing a younger, potentially more affordable alternative to established elite wingers on the market.
