Report: French star Liverpool scouts watched destroy PSG being considered as Salah replacement | OneFootball

Liverpool Set Sights on Maghnes Akliouche After PSG Masterclass

Liverpool scouts were left impressed by Monaco’s Maghnes Akliouche over the weekend, with the Frenchman delivering a performance that has put him firmly on Anfield’s radar. The 24-year-old winger, who also operates effectively as a number 10 or striker, has been monitored by the club’s recruitment team as a potential long-term solution to the void emerging in Liverpool’s attack.

Calls for Mo Salah to be dropped have intensified following another underwhelming display from the Egyptian forward, with many supporters suggesting the player has passed his peak. “The Egyptian looks past his best, and the efforts of the recruitment staff will have to be directed toward filling the void he leaves behind — whether that’s this summer or next,” one fan commented.

Ibrahima Konate also came under fire for his performance against Galatasaray, with supporters lamenting the defensive frailties shown. “Well I have supported the best team in England since 1966, but last night was there worst they played. The defence were like children against men. Konate was clueless, VVD was a bag of nerves, Slop need to pack his bags. He can’t take this team any further,” noted one disappointed supporter.

Picture:IMAGO

Maghnes Akliouche Emerges as Transfer Target

Akliouche’s versatility makes him particularly appealing for Liverpool. A natural right-winger, he can slot in across the front line, offering tactical flexibility that Arne Slot values. His recent display against PSG, where he contributed a goal and an assist in Monaco’s 3-1 victory over the reigning European champions, has confirmed the interest of a number of Premier League clubs, including Manchester United and Spurs.

TEAMtalk reports that Liverpool have joined a growing list of admirers, with scouts describing Akliouche’s performance as “very impressive” and bringing him “firmly into consideration.” With 130 Ligue 1 appearances already under his belt, the Frenchman offers experience as well as potential.

Despite the hype, Akliouche is unlikely to replicate Salah’s extraordinary output. “As exciting a talent as this player clearly is, he hasn’t shown anything to suggest he can match the production of one of Liverpool’s all-time greats. Truly, there might be three or four players in the sport who can,” the report adds. Other options being considered include Yan Diomande, Desire Doue, Bradley Barcola, and Nico Williams.

Tactical Considerations and Squad Depth

While Akliouche represents an intriguing addition, Liverpool must weigh whether his acquisition addresses immediate needs or functions as a strategic depth option. The club may also need to resolve other attacking targets first, with Diomande widely regarded by supporters as a more immediate solution. “Diomande deal needs to be concluded before the new window,” one fan emphasised.

Akliouche has already matched last season’s goal tally of five, signalling an upward trajectory. Yet, his development into an elite winger will take time, meaning Liverpool should approach any potential signing as a long-term investment rather than a direct Salah replacement.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

From a Liverpool supporter perspective, the interest in Maghnes Akliouche seems prudent but measured. While the Frenchman’s technical ability and versatility are clear, the club must avoid the temptation to view him as a like-for-like replacement for Salah, whose influence and output on the pitch were exceptional. The signing should be framed as an investment in the squad’s future rather than a short-term fix.

Arne Slot’s management style, which emphasises fluidity in attack, suits a player of Akliouche’s profile, offering multiple positional options and creative freedom. However, the priority remains ensuring the team has a reliable and proven scorer, particularly given the pressure to remain competitive domestically and in Europe. If Liverpool pursue Akliouche, it would be a move designed to complement existing talent and gradually integrate him into the first team rather than expecting immediate transformation.

The supporters’ focus will inevitably be on consistency and impact, with patience required from the fanbase while young recruits adapt to Premier League intensity. In essence, Akliouche could be a smart piece of recruitment, providing depth, flair, and long-term potential, but the responsibility to secure proven finishing options elsewhere remains equally important.