Liverpool have taken the first step in pursuing Monaco's dynamic winger Maghnes Akliouche, signalling a clear intention to strengthen their attacking options on the flank. According to sources at Sky Sports News, the English club have already made an initial enquiry to assess whether the 24‑year‑old French international might be available for a move to Anfield.
Akliouche, who has been a coveted target for Paris Saint‑Germain, has already attracted several bids from the Ligue 1 giants. However, Monaco have so far turned down every offer, insisting that the price tag must reflect the player’s potential and recent performances. The most recent PSG proposal is reported to be in the region of £34 million (approximately €40 million), a figure that has not yet satisfied the Monegasque side.
The Liverpool approach marks the first tangible sign that the club are moving beyond the era of Mohamed Salah, whose departure at the end of last season left a significant void on the right side of the pitch. Andoni Iraola, the new manager, has repeatedly stressed the need for a quality winger to replace the Egyptian star and to provide a fresh dimension to his attacking system. Akliouche is a versatile attacker capable of operating as a left‑footed right winger or as an advanced central midfielder (a classic No 10).
During the 2023‑24 Ligue 1 campaign he featured in 31 matches, contributing six goals and six assists. His statistical profile was impressive: he ranked among the top ball carriers in France and was also listed as one of the leading creators of chances in the league. Moreover, his high turnover rate and willingness to win the ball high up the pitch align well with Iraola’s high‑pressing, high‑intensity philosophy. The Frenchman’s international pedigree adds further appeal.
He was part of the France squad that contested the World Cup third‑place playoff against England, where he sat on the bench as the team suffered a 6‑4 defeat. Although he did not take to the field in that match, his inclusion in the senior squad underscores his rising reputation on the global stage.
From a tactical standpoint, Akliouche could slot neatly into Liverpool’s right‑wing position, a role that will likely be occupied by a player who can both cut inside onto his stronger left foot and stretch the defence with pace. With Florian Wirtz expected to continue his development at Anfield, the manager may prefer to keep the more creative duties central and deploy Akliouche primarily on the flank.
His ability to drift inside, link up with the midfield, and deliver incisive passes would give Iraola a flexible attacking template. The interest from Liverpool comes amid a busy transfer window for the club.
They have already secured the £34.5 million signing of Victor Muñoz from Osasuna, a midfielder who is expected to add depth to the central areas. Yet, in a pre‑season press conference ahead of a friendly against Sunderland in the United States, Iraola admitted that the squad still requires reinforcement, particularly on the wings. "We definitely need to sign a winger," he said, emphasizing the urgency of finding a suitable replacement for Salah.
Earlier reports had linked Liverpool with RB Leipzig’s Yan Diomande, but the German side reportedly set an asking price of around £112 million, far beyond Liverpool’s current budget. The Reds indicated willingness to meet a figure of £86 million, but the gap remains substantial. Consequently, the club has turned its attention to more attainable targets such as Akliouche, whose valuation appears to be more realistic for the Anfield faithful.
Iraola, when questioned about the number of signings required for his inaugural season, was cautious. "It’s difficult to give a precise number when the market is open," he explained. He added that the club must remain adaptable, evaluating each opportunity based on cost, fit, and the existing squad composition. "We have some tricky positions where we have injured players that we trust but is still not the ideal situation," he noted, hinting at the broader challenges the team faces beyond just the winger slot.
Beyond the immediate tactical considerations, Akliouche’s profile offers commercial and branding benefits. As a young French international with a growing reputation, he could appeal to both European and global markets, enhancing Liverpool’s off‑field reach. His experience in a top‑flight league and exposure to international tournaments also suggest he possesses the mental resilience required for the pressures of Premier League football.
In summary, Liverpool’s initial approach to Monaco for Maghnes Akliouche reflects a strategic move to address a critical gap left by Salah’s exit, while also aligning with Andoni Iraola’s vision of a high‑pressing, dynamic side. The French winger’s blend of technical skill, versatility, and work‑rate makes him a compelling candidate to rejuvenate the right flank.
Should Monaco accept Liverpool’s enquiry and negotiations progress, Anfield could soon witness a new attacking talent eager to prove himself on one of the world’s biggest stages.