PSG announces the signing of Maghnes Akliouche from Monaco for €50M. The French winger chose PSG over Liverpool on a five-year deal.
PSG's transfer window took time, but it has finally started. The French capital club announced the signing of Maghnes Akliouche, who will wear the number 11. The 24-year-old French international has joined Paris for five years, until 2031.
“Signing for Paris Saint-Germain is an immense source of pride. Having grown up in the Ile-de-France region, joining such a prestigious club means a lot to me and my family. I want to thank President Nasser Al-Khelaifi, Luis Campos and Luis Enrique for the trust they have placed in me, as well as all the people who have supported me up to this day. I cannot wait to wear this shirt, to continue progressing within this great club and to give everything to defend PSG's colours in front of its supporters,” said the player, who arrived from AS Monaco in a reported €50 million transfer.
Although Akliouche always gave priority to Paris Saint-Germain this summer, the Parc des Princes club were far from alone in the race for his signature.
The club most interested, besides Luis Enrique’s side, was Premier League side Liverpool.
According to reports from English media, Liverpool viewed Akliouche as a potential replacement for Mohamed Salah.
Just 10 days ago, TransferFeed published an update indicating that the Reds had entered the race strongly for the Frenchman, even expressing their willingness to submit a substantial offer to convince AS Monaco.
However, even then, it was reported and made clear that the 24-year-old winger had only one priority in mind: PSG.
Akliouche appears to be one of Luis Enrique’s attacking solutions following the departures of Portugal forward Goncalo Ramos, who was sold to AC Milan, and South Korea midfielder Lee Kang-in, who was transferred to Atletico Madrid.
A few weeks ago, there were parallel rumours that PSG wanted to sign both Akliouche and RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande, who ultimately signed for Real Madrid.
Therefore, it is expected that, in addition to the French winger, Enrique and sporting advisor Luis Campos will continue working on more attacking reinforcements.
In recent days, Ajax winger Mika Godts has been linked with the French capital club, although, for the moment, the player’s valuation appears to differ significantly between PSG and Ajax.
While PSG appear to have offered a fee close to €50 million, Ajax are reportedly seeking a figure between €60 million and €70 million.
So now it's time to wait for the season to start and see what Akliouche can offer PSG and its fans.
