Liverpool and Manchester United step up scouting of Monaco's Maghnes Akliouche
Liverpool and Manchester United have intensified their interest in Monaco forward Maghnes Akliouche, with both clubs sending scouts to watch him in action last weekend, according to reports from TEAMtalk. The 22-year-old French international was observed during Monaco's 2-1 victory over Marseille on Sunday as the Premier League rivals accelerate plans to bolster their attacking options ahead of the summer transfer window.
The interest from Anfield forms part of a broader search for wide reinforcements, with the long-term future of Mohamed Salah a continuing consideration for the club's recruitment team. Liverpool have reportedly conducted due diligence on several high-profile alternatives, including Paris Saint-Germain's Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Bradley Barcola, as well as Bayern Munich's Michael Olise. However, with initial approaches for those players proving difficult, Akliouche has emerged as a viable and appealing alternative target.
Manchester United are also actively monitoring the market for attacking talent and have now joined the pursuit of the Monaco youngster. The club is in a period of reshaping its forward line under its current sporting structure, and Akliouche represents a profile of young, versatile attacker that fits their model. The report indicates that both North West clubs have also shown concurrent interest in other forwards, including Everton's Iliman Ndiaye and RB Leipzig's Yan Diomande, suggesting a potential for further competition in the market.
Akliouche, who primarily operates on the right wing but can also play in an attacking midfield role, has enjoyed a productive season in Ligue 1. He has contributed seven goals and eight assists in 37 appearances across all competitions, demonstrating the creativity and end product that has attracted top-level suitors. With seven senior caps for France already to his name, the player is understood to be highly motivated to impress in the season's final weeks to strengthen his case for a place in the national team's World Cup squad later this year.
The player's contractual situation at the Stade Louis II is adding to the speculation. Akliouche has just over two years remaining on his current deal, and Monaco are reportedly bracing for significant interest, with an expectation that he could depart the Principality this summer. While no formal bids have been detailed, the heightened scouting activity from two of England's biggest clubs suggests a concrete move could materialise in the coming months.
For Monaco, the potential sale of another academy graduate would follow a familiar model, though they would be reluctant to lose a key creative asset. For the interested Premier League clubs, Akliouche represents a younger, developmental option with resale potential, as opposed to a ready-made superstar signing. His adaptability across the front line and his proven output in a competitive league make him a logical target for clubs looking to add depth and future quality to their squads without necessarily breaking their transfer record.
The coming weeks will be crucial for Akliouche's valuation and for the clubs to formalise their interest. His performances between now and the end of the season, coupled with any potential involvement in the World Cup, could significantly influence the scale of the bidding should Monaco decide to sell. The convergence of interest from Liverpool and Manchester United sets the stage for a potential summer transfer battle for one of Ligue 1's most promising attacking talents.
