Liverpool have taken the first step in trying to sign Monaco's talented winger Maghnes Akliouche, according to sources at Sky Sports News. The English club have reportedly made an initial enquiry about the 24‑year‑old French international to gauge his possible availability. Sky Sports understands that Liverpool have been monitoring Akliouche closely, especially after the Ligue 1 side received several bids from Paris Saint‑Germain.
PSG have been keen on the player for some time, but Monaco have so far rejected every offer, including a recent proposal believed to be around £34 million (approximately €40 million). The French club appear to be holding out for a valuation that reflects Akliouche's potential and recent performances. Akliouche was part of the France squad that contested the World Cup third‑place play‑off against England, where he featured on the bench as the French side fell 6‑4. The youngster is versatile, capable of operating on the right flank or in a more central, attacking‑midfield role.
In the 2023‑24 Ligue 1 campaign he featured in 31 league games, netting six goals and providing an equal number of assists, statistics that underline his dual threat as both a scorer and a creator. Andoni Iraola, Liverpool's new manager, has repeatedly stressed the need for a quality winger to replace the departing Mohamed Salah. In a pre‑season press conference ahead of a friendly against Sunderland in the United States, Iraola said, "We definitely need to sign a winger," highlighting the importance of replenishing the right‑hand side of the attack now that the Egyptian King has moved on. Akliouche could fill that void in a number of ways.
Although he is left‑footed, he is most comfortable playing as a right winger, where his pace, dribbling, and ability to cut inside can stretch defences and create space for teammates. He also possesses the vision and passing range to operate as a No 10, linking play between midfield and attack.
This flexibility would give Iraola tactical options, especially as he looks to integrate Florian Wirtz, who is expected to make a significant impact at Anfield after a promising debut season. Statistically, Akliouche was among the top ball carriers in Ligue 1 last season and ranked highly in chance creation. His work‑rate is evident in his high turnover numbers; he frequently wins the ball high up the pitch, a trait that aligns well with Iraola's high‑pressing philosophy.
Such attributes make him an attractive prospect for a Liverpool side that aims to dominate opponents through intensity and quick transitions. The interest in Akliouche is not limited to Liverpool. Paris Saint‑Germain have been linked with the player for months, and the competition for his signature could drive his price higher. Nonetheless, Liverpool's early approach signals that the club is willing to explore alternatives to the more expensive options that have been circulating in the market.
Earlier this summer, the Reds were reported to be interested in RB Leipzig's Yan Diomande, but Leipzig set a staggering price tag of around £112 million, with Liverpool only prepared to meet £86 million. In contrast, Akliouche's valuation, while still substantial, appears more manageable for the English side.
Liverpool have already spent £34.5 million on Victor Muñoz from Osasuna, a signing that reflects Iraola's intent to strengthen the squad ahead of his first campaign in charge. When asked how many new players the club would need, Iraola admitted that it is difficult to give a precise figure while the transfer market remains fluid. "You have to always be open to new options to improve the squad," he said.
"There are obvious situations that we know where we need to sign players. A winger, for example – we definitely need to sign a winger. But there are other situations that we will have to analyse what the market gives you, what's the cost, how we also see the players we have." Beyond the immediate tactical considerations, Akliouche brings a profile that could appeal to Liverpool's global fan base. His performances for France at a young age, combined with his ability to play in multiple attacking positions, make him a marketable asset.
Moreover, his experience in high‑pressure matches, such as the World Cup play‑off, suggests he can handle the spotlight that comes with playing for a club of Liverpool's stature. If Liverpool succeed in securing Akliouche, the signing would represent the first concrete step away from relying on Salah's goal output and towards building a more diversified attacking unit.
The French forward's blend of speed, creativity, and defensive pressing could complement the existing squad, providing fresh impetus on the right wing and adding depth to the midfield. In summary, Liverpool's initial approach to Monaco for Maghnes Akliouche reflects a strategic move by Andoni Iraola to address a key positional need, diversify the team's attacking options, and lay the foundations for a new era at Anfield. While competition from PSG and the player's price tag present challenges, the Reds appear committed to exploring all viable avenues to reinforce their flank and maintain their competitive edge in both domestic and European competitions.