Liverpool have initiated contact with Monaco regarding winger Maghnes Akliouche. This development comes as Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) has also shown significant interest in the 24-year-old France international, with several previous offers reportedly rejected by Monaco.
PSG’s most recent offer for Akliouche was understood to be around £34m (€40m), but this figure was not deemed acceptable by Monaco. Akliouche, who can operate on the right wing or as an attacking midfielder, made 31 appearances in Ligue 1 last season, contributing six goals and six assists. He was also part of the France squad that played in the World Cup third-place play-off.
Reinforcing the attack
The interest from Liverpool aligns with comments made by their new head coach, Andoni Iraola. Speaking ahead of a pre-season friendly, Iraola indicated a clear need for additional wingers following Mohamed Salah’s departure. He stated that while the transfer market is open, the team definitely needs to sign a winger.
Liverpool have already completed the signing of Victor Munoz from Osasuna for £34.5m. However, the club continues to explore options to strengthen its wide attacking positions. Earlier reports suggested Liverpool’s interest in RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande, but Leipzig reportedly sought around £112m, with Liverpool indicating a willingness to pay £86m.
The pursuit of Akliouche suggests a shift in focus for Liverpool as they consider other targets. Iraola emphasised the need to remain open to new options to improve the squad, particularly in positions where reinforcements are clearly needed, such as the wing.
Akliouche has accumulated over 100 senior appearances for Monaco, scoring 23 goals and providing 28 assists. He has also made 10 senior appearances for France, scoring one goal. His profile is seen as aligning with Liverpool’s transfer strategy.
Competition from PSG
PSG has identified Akliouche as a prime target and has made multiple attempts to secure his services. Despite their persistent interest and several offers, Monaco has consistently rejected their bids. This sets the stage for a potential transfer battle between the two European clubs for the winger.
The competition for wingers has been a theme this summer, with both Liverpool and PSG reportedly targeting players like Yan Diomande. While Diomande is reportedly favouring a move to PSG, this has not deterred Liverpool’s pursuit of other options like Akliouche.
Reports had previously suggested that PSG was in advanced talks for Akliouche, with optimism surrounding a potential agreement. However, Monaco’s stance on their valuation of the player has remained firm, leading to the rejection of PSG’s offers, including the recent £34m bid.
The situation highlights the ongoing efforts by both clubs to bolster their attacking departments, with Liverpool’s new approach for Maghnes Akliouche adding another layer to the summer transfer window discussions.
Managerial perspective on transfers
Andoni Iraola reiterated the complexities of the transfer market, noting that it is difficult to specify a number of signings needed when the market is still active. He stressed the importance of being adaptable and analysing available options, considering both the cost and the existing players within the squad.
The Liverpool manager also acknowledged that some positions are tricky due to injured players, even though the club trusts those players. This suggests that transfer decisions will be influenced by various factors, including player fitness and market opportunities.
The club’s pursuit of Akliouche is a direct response to the identified need for a winger, a requirement that became more pressing after Mohamed Salah’s departure at the end of last season.
The initial approach for Maghnes Akliouche indicates Liverpool’s active involvement in the transfer market as they aim to strengthen their squad for the upcoming season.
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Source: skysports.com
