The future of Liverpool's wingers is a topic of much speculation, with the club looking to make significant changes this summer. The departure of Mohamed Salah and the potential return of Federico Chiesa to Italy are already shaping the landscape, but the fate of Cody Gakpo is also in question. The Dutch winger has had a challenging season at Anfield, struggling to find a connection with his teammates and often being overlooked in favor of more dynamic options. With his hefty £250,000-a-week salary, his departure seems inevitable, and the club is actively seeking a replacement.
According to recent reports, Liverpool is targeting two new wingers, with Yan Diomande of RB Leipzig being their top choice. However, the acquisition of a second winger might depend on finding a suitable buyer for Gakpo. The club's interest in PSG's Bradley Barcola has seemingly cooled, and the focus has shifted to other options. The Daily Mail mentioned West Ham's Jarrod Bowen as a potential target, but the latest news suggests that Liverpool is now eyeing a different French talent.
The French winger in question is not Barcola, but Maghnes Akliouche of Monaco. Akliouche, a 24-year-old left-footed player, has been in impressive form this season, contributing seven goals and 11 assists across all competitions. His performances have not gone unnoticed, as he has already earned seven senior caps for France. Akliouche previously turned down a move to Tottenham, but his €50m / £43m price tag is not expected to deter Liverpool, who are determined to secure his services.
This potential signing is particularly intriguing, as it showcases Liverpool's willingness to invest in young, talented players. Akliouche's ability to play on the right side and his impressive goal and assist figures make him a valuable asset. The club's interest in him, despite the high price tag, indicates a strategic move to strengthen their attacking options. The competition for Akliouche's signature is fierce, with Aston Villa, Chelsea, Manchester United, Newcastle, and Tottenham also showing interest. However, Liverpool's determination to secure his services could give them an edge in this transfer battle.
In my opinion, the pursuit of Akliouche is a smart move by Liverpool. His age, talent, and international experience make him a long-term investment worth considering. The club's willingness to pay a premium for his services suggests a commitment to building a strong squad. As the transfer window heats up, the Reds will need to navigate the competition and secure the right players to shape their future success.
