Manchester United join race for AS Monaco forward Maghnes Akliouche | OneFootball

Manchester United have reportedly become the latest club to express an interest in AS Monaco attacker Maghnes Akliouche.

United are looking to strengthen their attacking options in the upcoming transfer window and remain linked with several forwards. The Red Devils have struggled for consistent goalscoring this season, with many of their attackers failing to deliver reliably.

This season, club skipper Bruno Fernandes has carried the goalscoring burden alongside his usual role of creating chances. It’s clear the captain needs support, which is why United are expected to turn to the transfer market for attacking reinforcements.

Some of the forwards mentioned to be on United’s radar include Matheus Cunha (Wolverhampton Wanderers), Liam Delap (Ipswich Town), Victor Osimhen (Napoli), Xavi Simons (RB Leipzig), Benjamin Sesko (RB Leipzig) and Antoine Semenyo (Bournemouth), just to mention a few names.

Now, French news outlet L’Équipe [via GFFN] report that United have joined the race for Monaco’s Maghnes Akliouche.

Akliouche has been in fine form this season, scoring four goals and providing an additional eight assists in 27 Ligue 1 appearances. He has notched six goals and 10 assists in 38 games across all competitions.

Naturally a right-winger, Akliouche boasts a deadly left foot that allows him to cut inside and unleash shots or deliver dangerous crosses. He’s a skilful dribbler, hardworking, and shows great game intelligence – impressive qualities for a young player still finding his feet in senior football.

Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain were keen on signing him last summer but he opted to stay at Monaco, even extending his contract until 2028.

However, it seems that there is now an acceptance that the upcoming window is the opportune time for him to move on. It’s understood that City and PSG’s interest in the 23-year-old remains steadfast.

Real Madrid are also eyeing Akliouche and could make a move for him, especially if Xabi Alonso succeeds Carlo Ancelotti in the Santiago Bernabeu dugout. The Spanish coach is a fan of the Akliouche.

If United are to materialise their interest in Akliouche, it would cost them anywhere between €70-80m.

Monaco boss Adi Hütter recently suggested that Akliouce will be available for transfer this summer. Hütter said at a press conference, “He is already playing at a top club. We are all happy with what he has done over the last two years. He made a big, big step in the right direction. I can imagine that the club is receiving some offers from him.”

“He is 23, and I don’t see many players with the same skills as Akliouche. When you ask me, he is ready to make the next step. We will see what happens with Maghnes.”

Featured image Gualter Fatia via Getty Images

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