Liverpool's chances of hijacking a Paris Saint-Germain move to sign Monaco winger Maghnes Akliouche have been analysed by Fabrizio Romano.
Liverpool have been quiet in the market since completing another transfer hijack after signing winger Victor Munoz from under the noses of Premier League rivals Newcastle United.
The Reds are still looking to land their Mohamed Salah replacement, after the Egyptian departed Anfield by mutual consent this summer.
The 34-year-old leaves a big void to be filled, and the Merseyside outfit had identified RB Leipzig sensation Yan Diomande as the player they wanted to come in on the wing.
However, the teenager quickly decided he wanted to prioritise a move to Champions League holders Paris Saint-Germain instead, with the Ligue 1 champions seemingly looking to bring in two new wingers this summer, as they pursue a move for Akliouche simultaneously.
Ironically, PSG signing both Diomande and Akliouche could open the door for the exit of another Liverpool target in Bradley Barcola, who could fall down the pecking order as a result as contract negotiations with the French giants continue to stall.
With two years remaining on his current deal, PSG could see this summer as the optimum time to cash in on him if new terms canot be agreed.
Romano Issues Update on Akliouche to Liverpool
Maghnes Akliouche looks on during an AS Monaco matchvia Reuters
Liverpool were said to have made contact over a move for Akliouche on Wednesday by Sky Sports, but Romano has poured cold water on the chances of the France international making the move to Anfield, as things stand.
Speaking live on X on Wednesday night, Romano reaffirmed his belief that Akliouche is still destined to join PSG in this window.
He said: "Many rumours and reports today about Liverpool and Akliouche, but my information is that Maghnes Akliouche will be, barring any surprises, a Paris Saint-Germain player.
"At the moment, there is still no full agreement between the two clubs. So apart from some calls from Premier League clubs, the player Akliouche is still giving priority to Paris Saint-Germain. He has an agreement on the contract with PSG. He's very tempted by the possibility of joining the Paris Saint-Germain project as a French player during the World Cup, surrounded by many Paris Saint-Germain players.
"He was already discussing where he's going to play, what kind of connection there will be? So my feeling is really strong about Paris Saint-Germain Maghnes Akliouche. Then, if some English clubs come and join the race, I will let you know."
Fees correct prior to summer 2026
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Liverpool Pushing for Big-Name Winger Transfer
Bradley Barcolavia Reuters
Romano confirmed in the same video that Liverpool are still 'pushing' to sign Barcola before the September 1 deadline, and the France international certainly fits the criteria of being a top-class Salah replacement.
There may be doubts over the 23-year-old's future at the Parc des Princes, but the attacker showed his ability for his nation at the 2026 World Cup with three goals in eight games, including some terrific finishes.
The issue, as it was for Diomande, could be the Frenchman's price tag, with the Champions League holders surely wanting at least £100m for him given the valuation of Diomande and other players in this window.