Maghnes Akliouche has made Paris Saint-Germain his clear preference this summer, despite Liverpool stepping up their efforts with a more lucrative proposal to AS Monaco.
The 24-year-old attacking midfielder, who enjoyed a standout season in Ligue 1, has informed Monaco that he wishes to join the French champions and has already given his approval to a move to PSG, according to Foot Mercato.
Liverpool have entered the race with what is described as a financially stronger offer for Monaco, hoping to persuade the Principality club to sell to the Premier League side. Their approach is viewed as attractive from a financial standpoint and has given Monaco a serious alternative to Paris.
However, the player’s stance is emerging as the decisive factor. While the sporting project at Liverpool is considered appealing, Akliouche is understood to be focused solely on a transfer to the Parc des Princes in this transfer window.
PSG make Akliouche a priority target
Akliouche’s performances for Monaco last season have pushed him towards the top of PSG’s shortlist as they look to reinforce their attacking options. His profile has been admired for several months by both sporting advisor Luis Campos and head coach Luis Enrique, who see him as fitting closely with the club’s technical and tactical plans.
The France-born, Franco-Algerian playmaker has become one of the most talked-about names in the French market, and PSG view him as a key piece in their longer-term rebuild. His ability to operate in advanced midfield and attacking roles is regarded as particularly valuable.
Liverpool raise financial stakes
Liverpool’s reaction to PSG’s interest has been swift. The Premier League club are willing to submit a higher bid to Monaco than PSG, in an attempt to tilt negotiations in their favour.
Such an offer could strongly appeal to Monaco’s hierarchy, who must weigh the financial benefits of a sale to England against the wishes of the player himself and the dynamics of transferring a key asset to a domestic rival.
At this stage, though, Akliouche’s insistence on joining PSG is likely to carry significant weight in talks, especially with personal terms understood to be no obstacle following his green light to the French champions.
Talks ongoing between PSG and Monaco
Despite Akliouche’s clear preference, a deal is not yet in place. Discussions between PSG and Monaco are continuing as the two clubs work towards an agreement on the transfer fee and structure of the deal.
With Liverpool now providing genuine competition, PSG must convince Monaco’s decision-makers that their proposal is sufficient. The presence of a Premier League bidder with greater financial muscle has increased the pressure on the Paris club to find common ground.
Barring an unexpected twist, the outcome of the saga is now expected to hinge on whether Monaco and PSG can reach a compromise. The player’s choice is already known and firmly in favour of a future in Paris.
Under contract with Monaco until June 2028, Akliouche currently has an estimated market value of €50m, according to Transfermarkt. His annual salary at Monaco is reported to be €1,150,000 (747,500,000 FCFA).
