Maghnes Akliouche to leave Monaco in January? Sébastien Pocognoli responds | OneFootball

With the January window fast-approaching, Maghnes Akliouche (23) continues to be linked with a move away from formative club AS Monaco.

Akliouche, who this season has become a France international, was the subject of interest from the likes of Manchester City, Paris Saint-Germain, Bayer Leverkusen, and Tottenham Hotspur over the summer. L’Équipe understands that, despite the arrival of Rayan Cherki over the summer, Manchester City retain that interest. 

Speaking ahead of Sunday’s Coupe de France tie against AJ Auxerre, Sébastien Pocognoli evoked Akliouche’s future. “I am counting on everyone for the second part of the season, but Maghnes is free to ake his decision. Those pertaining to his future are his to take,” began the Monaco manager, who has given the France international a key role in his side. 

Pocognoli, however, provided an argument for the Frenchman to remain at the Stade Louis II beyond January. “What I can say is that there are still lots of things he can improve upon before making this step (a transfer away). I’ll take the example of Noah Sadiki at Sunderland. He is having a fantastic season. With Union (Pocognoli’s former club), we prepared, so he has that rigour. Did I ask the hierarchy to close the door? I am happy with my group, and I will work with what I have at the end of the window. I always adapt. I have done since I arrived.”

In the summer, Monaco valued Akliouche at €70m. 

GFFN | Luke Entwistle