Liverpool have made an initial approach to Monaco about winger Maghnes Akliouche, as Andoni Iraola aims to boost his attack ahead of the new season.
The 24-year-old French forward has jumped to the top of Liverpool’s shortlist after Mohamed Salah left earlier this summer.
Replacing the Egyptian King leaves a huge hole on the right wing, so the club has been scouting across Europe for fresh talent. Akliouche is coming off a fantastic season in France, where he netted 11 goals and eight assists across all competitions.
Liverpool have reportedly contacted Monaco to figure out what fee it would take to bring him to Anfield. Paris Saint-Germain are also keeping tabs, but Liverpool want to move quickly to beat them to the deal. With his contract running until 2028, Monaco will demand a steep price tag, likely north of £45m.
Speaking from the team’s training base in Chicago, Iraola repeated that he wants at least one more wide player before the transfer window closes at the end of August.
“We know that the job here is huge and we need to be realistic about where the squad is right now,” Iraola explained to reporters.
“Two players have come through the door, but we definitely need more depth across several positions if we want to compete at the very highest level week in and week out.”
Even with Victor Munoz already signing for £34.5m, he feels the squad still lacks the creative depth required for the gruelling demands of domestic and European football. Akliouche fits the right age bracket and suits the high-pressing style Iraola wants to build.
Supporters are watching closely as pre-season preparations ramp up in North America, with upcoming friendlies lined up against Sunderland, Wrexham, and Leeds United.
Bringing in a player of Akliouche’s quality would be a clear sign of ambition from the club and backing for the new coach. Negotiations are expected to continue in the coming days as Liverpool try to work out a structured payment deal with Monaco.
