Liverpool and Manchester United Scout Monaco Winger Akliouche as Salah Successor
Liverpool are preparing for the departure of Mohamed Salah by identifying potential successors, with Monaco's Maghnes Akliouche emerging as a concrete target. According to sources, both Liverpool and rivals Manchester United sent scouts to watch the 24-year-old French winger during Monaco's 2-1 victory over Marseille this past weekend. The Merseyside club have agreed to waive the final year of Salah's contract, allowing the Egyptian legend to leave Anfield on a free transfer this summer after a storied tenure.
Akliouche, who has registered seven goals and eight assists in 37 appearances for Monaco this season, is viewed as a versatile and creative option. The club are reportedly open to a sale for a fee in the region of €70 million (£61 million). While Liverpool have made enquiries for more established names like Crystal Palace's Michael Olise and Paris Saint-Germain's Bradley Barcola, sources indicate Akliouche represents a more likely and financially viable solution as they seek to refresh their attack.
The interest from Manchester United, however, complicates Liverpool's pursuit, setting the stage for a potential summer transfer tussle. The competition underscores the high regard for Akliouche's development in Ligue 1, where he has shown consistent progression. His potential arrival at either Premier League giant would mark a significant step up in his career.
In a separate but significant development, speculation has intensified regarding Liverpool's long-term interest in Real Madrid midfielder Eduardo Camavinga. A report from French publication L'Equipe suggested Madrid would be open to selling the 23-year-old, prompting a clarification from transfer expert Fabrizio Romano. On his platform, Romano stated that while Real Madrid do not consider Camavinga out of their project, they would listen to a 'good proposal' this summer. He emphasized the club is not desperate to sell, but a substantial offer could potentially test their resolve, with figures around €70 million being mooted.
These transfer maneuvers are unfolding against a backdrop of scrutiny for Liverpool manager Arne Slot. Trusted journalist Paul Joyce has reported that the backing of owners FSG will be 'challenged' during a difficult upcoming run of fixtures, which includes matches against Paris Saint-Germain, Everton, Manchester United, Chelsea, and Aston Villa. Further reports from journalist Pete O'Rourke suggest the club would be 'prepared to sack Slot' if the atmosphere around the team becomes more 'toxic.'
This context adds a layer of urgency to Liverpool's planning, as the sporting department works to build a squad capable of meeting expectations next season, regardless of who is in the dugout. The potential double swoop for Akliouche and Camavinga would signal a major investment in the post-Salah era, aiming to blend youthful promise with proven quality at the highest level. The coming months will be critical in determining the direction of the club on and off the pitch.
