Liverpool and Manchester United are facing a major transfer setback as Monaco midfielder Maghnes Akliouche has reportedly made Paris Saint-Germain his preferred destination this summer.
Akliouche, a highly skilled attacking midfielder, has informed both Premier League clubs that his priority is to join PSG. The Ligue 1 champions are now advancing in talks with Monaco, putting them in a strong position to win the race.
The direction of the transfer appears clear, with PSG emerging as the leading contender to sign Akliouche. The French club can offer Champions League football, domestic dominance, and a French football project, making it an attractive package for the 25-year-old midfielder.
Akliouche's creativity, close control, and ability to play across attacking roles have made him a highly sought-after target. Liverpool had viewed him as part of a wider attacking rebuild, while Manchester United saw him as a flexible midfielder who could add quality in the final third.
However, PSG's offer appears to be too enticing for Akliouche, who has opted to prioritize the French club's project over a move to the Premier League. This setback is a bigger blow for Liverpool, who are searching more urgently for attacking creativity and long-term replacements in forward areas.
Liverpool and Manchester United may be best advised to move quickly to alternative targets, as the PSG move appears to be gaining momentum. Unless the PSG deal suddenly stalls, both Premier League clubs may be better off looking elsewhere for their midfield needs.
