Liverpool initiate contact for Monaco's Akliouche

Liverpool have made an initial approach to Monaco for winger Maghnes Akliouche, according to reports. The Merseyside club are understood to be assessing attacking reinforcements ahead of the summer transfer window.

Background and tactical context

Akliouche, a 22-year-old French youth international, has impressed in Ligue 1 with his dribbling and creativity from the right flank. He has contributed three goals and five assists this season in 18 league appearances.

Liverpool's current wide options include Mohamed Salah, Luis Díaz, Cody Gakpo, and Diogo Jota. With Salah turning 33 in June, planning for succession makes sense. Akliouche’s profile as a left-footed right winger fits Arne Slot’s system, which often uses inverted wide players to cut inside and shoot or create.

Monaco are known for developing young talent and demanding high fees. Previous sales of Aurélien Tchouaméni, Kylian Mbappé, and Benoît Badiashile illustrate their negotiating strength.

Transfer market implications

An initial approach suggests Liverpool are testing the waters. No fee has been discussed publicly, but comparable young wingers with top-flight experience have commanded fees in the £40-60 million range. Monaco typically seek significant profit on academy graduates.

Liverpool’s recruitment under Michael Edwards and Julian Ward has historically prioritised value and long-term upside. Akliouche fits that mould, though his resale value might be lower given the likely premium.

  • Akliouche has averaged 2.1 dribbles per 90 in Ligue 1 this season, ranking among the league’s top 15 for wingers.
  • He has also created 0.9 big chances per 90, highlighting his creative output.
  • Monaco are competing for Champions League qualification, so they may resist a January departure unless a premium bid arrives.

Fantasy Premier League context

Akliouche is not yet an FPL consideration. If a summer move materialises, his price would likely start around £6.5m-£7.0m, making him a mid-range option. Liverpool’s opening fixtures in 2025/26 are still unknown, but their attacking schedule is usually favourable for the first eight gameweeks.

What comes next

Liverpool must decide whether to formalise their interest with a concrete offer. Monaco will likely demand at least £45 million for a player under contract until 2027. For now, this is an exploratory move. Expect further developments in the coming weeks as the summer window approaches and player valuations crystallise.

Filed under: Transfer Rumours | LA Premier League Home