Paris Saint-Germain have announced the signing of Maghnes Akliouche for £43 million, a move that could boost Liverpool's pursuit of Bradley Barcola. The French champions have been in talks with Liverpool over the 23-year-old winger, who remains the Reds' priority target this summer.
Akliouche adds to PSG's attacking depth
Akliouche, 24, primarily plays as an attacking midfielder but can also operate on the right wing, a position Barcola has played for PSG despite preferring the left flank. The new arrival is left-footed, and both players could feature together, but his signing increases competition for places in Paris, where Barcola has already struggled to secure regular starts.
Last season, Desire Doué, Ibrahim Mbaye, and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia competed with Barcola for spots in the side. Akliouche now adds to their options on the flanks. PSG describe him as a "young winger" on their website, hinting at where coach Luis Enrique plans to use him, and he has been assigned the number 11 shirt.
PSG's transfer activity and Barcola's situation
French outlet L'Equipe reports that Akliouche is a replacement for Lee Kang-in, who joined Atletico Madrid late last month. PSG are also in verbal discussions with Ajax over Mika Godts, a right-footed winger like Barcola who plays off the left.
According to L'Equipe, Liverpool and PSG are confident of reaching an agreement for Barcola. His representatives have given the Reds encouraging signs following preliminary talks. With two years left on his contract, Barcola has reportedly made it clear he will not renew his deal. Arsenal have scouted the France international, but they appear unlikely to sign Vinicius Junior, who seems set to stay at Real Madrid.
Liverpool's attacking options
Liverpool have added only Victor Munoz to their attacking options this summer. The Spain international joins Cody Gakpo, Federico Chiesa, and Rio Ngumoha as their wide players. Munoz helps replace Mohamed Salah's departure numerically, but the Reds still need cover for Hugo Ekitike, who will miss the start of the season injured. His absence could see Gakpo play centrally as an alternative to Alexander Isak.
Harvey Elliott and Kieran Morrison could also be involved, especially with speculation over the futures of Chiesa and Gakpo. Liverpool have also been linked with Matias Fernandez-Pardo, Said El Mala, and Yankuba Minteh.
