Liverpool Fails to Secure Maghnes Akliouche as He Joins PSG

Liverpool have reportedly stepped back from their pursuit of Maghnes Akliouche, who has agreed a five-year deal with Paris Saint-Germain. The 24-year-old winger, seen as a potential replacement for Mohamed Salah, was heavily pursued by the Reds earlier this month.

Alongside Liverpool, Tottenham Hotspur also showed strong interest in the versatile attacker. Akliouche was part of France's squad that reached the semi-finals of the 2026 World Cup.

PSG managed to secure the signing, moving ahead of other contenders after agreeing a £42.8m fee with Monaco, where Akliouche still had two years left on his contract without an extension in sight. According to Fabrizio Romano, the deal is now finalized and Akliouche is set to join the European champions.

Akliouche to Sign Long-Term Contract with PSG

The French forward will sign a contract lasting until 2031 and is expected to undergo his medical examinations soon. He joined Monaco’s academy from Torcy nine years ago and has contributed 23 goals and 28 assists over 139 appearances in all competitions.

Last season, Akliouche directly influenced 18 goals in 43 matches, scoring seven times and assisting 11. His form attracted the attention of Didier Deschamps before the World Cup, though he played only a minor role during the tournament, clocking just seven minutes against Iraq.

Implications for Liverpool and Bradley Barcola

While missing out on Akliouche is a setback, it may not be a major one for Liverpool since he wasn’t their main target. Instead, his move to PSG might open opportunities for the Reds in their pursuit of Bradley Barcola.

Barcola reportedly prefers a transfer to Liverpool despite links with Arsenal. Talks between Liverpool and PSG are ongoing, though PSG's £145m valuation of Barcola seems high. Akliouche’s arrival at PSG could increase competition for playing time, potentially influencing Barcola’s decision.

It’s unclear if Akliouche’s transfer will impact Barcola’s future because Akliouche may replace Ibrahim Mbaye, who is also rumored to be leaving Paris. Akliouche and Mbaye play more similar roles compared to Barcola, so this PSG signing might not benefit Liverpool’s interest in Barcola as much as some think.