Monaco attacking midfielder Maghnes Akliouche has informed Liverpool that he wishes to join Paris Saint-Germain this summer, even though the Premier League club is prepared to submit a higher bid than the French champions.
The 24-year-old France international has made his preference clear to the Merseyside outfit following their recent enquiry, according to Foot Mercato. This development hands PSG a significant advantage in the chase for the playmaker’s signature despite their previous failures to meet Monaco’s valuation.
Fourth PSG bid incoming
The reigning Ligue 1 champions are readying a fourth offer for the academy graduate after seeing three earlier approaches rejected by the Principality club. Their most recent bid was believed to be around €40 million, well below the €70 million price tag Monaco have attached to the player.
The fresh proposal is thought to be in the region of €50 million, according to L’Équipe. While this represents an improvement, it remains €20 million short of the asking price. PSG hope that Akliouche’s desire to remain in France will eventually persuade Monaco to lower their demands.
Liverpool interest rebuffed
The Reds had positioned themselves to rival PSG financially, with sources indicating a willingness to exceed the Parisians’ offers. However, Akliouche’s decision to communicate his preference for Paris effectively cools Liverpool’s pursuit, as the player is unlikely to consider a move to Anfield regardless of the financial package.
Monaco maintain a firm position on their valuation despite the mounting interest from two of Europe’s elite clubs. With the midfielder now limiting his options to PSG, the Monegasque side face a negotiating standoff with the capital club over the remaining gap in valuation.