Manchester City Join Pursuit of Monaco Winger | OneFootball

Manchester City Join Race for Maghnes Akliouche

Manchester City have entered the chase for AS Monaco winger Maghnes Akliouche, adding him to their shortlist for the current summer transfer window. Florian Plettenberg reported on X that “Manchester City have added Maghnes Akliouche to their shortlist for this summer transfer window!” The 23-year-old has already been attracting significant attention, with Bayer Leverkusen identifying him as their ideal high-class winger target.

City’s growing interest sets up what could be an intense battle in the final weeks of the window. With Akliouche potentially costing less than Real Madrid’s Rodrygo, the race for his signature is now wide open and could extend right up until Deadline Day.

Photo IMAGO

Rising Profile in Ligue 1

Akliouche has emerged as one of the most dynamic attacking talents in France. Capable of operating across multiple forward positions, he has developed a reputation for pace, close control and an ability to cut inside to create scoring opportunities. His progression at Monaco has been rapid, and this season could mark his biggest leap yet if a high-profile move materialises.

Bayer Leverkusen have long been leading the pursuit, seeing him as the perfect addition to a squad already full of attacking flair. However, City’s entry into the race changes the equation significantly, especially with Pep Guardiola’s track record of developing wide players into world-class performers.

Transfer Market Dynamics

One of the key attractions for City is Akliouche’s reported value. Compared to other winger targets on the market, including Rodrygo, he would command a significantly lower transfer fee while still offering high potential. This could allow City to strengthen their squad depth without committing a record-breaking sum.

Photo: IMAGO

Plettenberg’s update also suggests that with both City and Leverkusen in pursuit, negotiations could accelerate quickly. Deadline Day scenarios often favour well-resourced clubs, and City’s financial flexibility means they can move decisively if Guardiola pushes for the signing.

Potential Fit at the Etihad

Akliouche’s style could suit City’s intricate attacking patterns. His ability to play wide or drift centrally offers tactical versatility, while his sharp dribbling could add another dimension to City’s approach against low-block defences.

For the player, the decision will not only be about financial terms but also about where he will get the most playing time. At Leverkusen, he would be a centrepiece in Erik ten Hag’s attacking plans, while at City, competition for places would be intense. However, the chance to work under Guardiola and compete in the Premier League could prove too tempting to turn down.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

For Manchester City, this feels like a smart and opportunistic move. Akliouche is young, versatile and available at a reasonable price compared to other high-end winger targets. Fans will appreciate the club looking at value in the market while still targeting players with significant upside.

The main question will be whether he can adapt quickly to Guardiola’s demanding system; Akliouche’s technical quality and intelligence suggest he could find his role quickly.

Competition from Leverkusen is real, but City’s resources and reputation for turning good players into elite performers could give them the edge. If the deal happens, supporters will expect him to develop into a player capable of making decisive contributions in big matches, especially in the Champions League.

City’s squad already has depth, but with the calendar packed and injuries inevitable, adding another high-quality winger could be crucial for maintaining dominance both domestically and in Europe.