PSG steal a march on Liverpool for ‘insane’ Monaco star as Iraola’s Reds rethink the plan

Liverpool’s summer is already getting spicy. On the back of a flat Premier League campaign and with Andoni Iraola confirmed to take over from Arne Slot, the Reds are gearing up for a major reset — and it needs to match the new gaffer’s high-octane, press-you-to-bits blueprint.

PSG surge to the front for Akliouche

Transfer oracle Fabrizio Romano says Paris Saint-Germain have nudged ahead of two Premier League suitors in the race for Monaco livewire Maghnes Akliouche. Earlier chatter put Liverpool firmly in the mix around the £60m mark, with Manchester City also admiring the midfielder. The 22-year-old has been hailed as ‘insane’ by talent-watchers on social media, and Romano adds that talks are heating up with bids expected on the table soon.

What this means for Liverpool

Reading between the lines, Liverpool look to be reordering their shopping list. The focus right now is RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande — exactly the sort of direct, relentless runner who could thrive under Iraola’s more aggressive press compared to Slot’s approach. The Reds have, according to GIVEMESPORT sources, already seen a proposal worth €100m (an €80m fee plus €20m in add-ons) knocked back, though personal terms are said to be agreed. With Mohamed Salah departing on a free this summer, Diomande has been identified as the prime heir to that right-sided goal threat.

Fit for the new era

Iraola’s blueprint puts a premium on verticality, turnovers high up, and wingers who can both trigger and finish transitions. Akliouche’s craft between the lines would’ve been a lovely luxury, but if PSG are dictating the pace, Liverpool can’t afford to be left holding their wallet while the squad cries out for a ready-made wide menace. Priorities, priorities.

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Don’t ignore City lurking

City’s interest in Akliouche shouldn’t be dismissed either. If PSG complete the swoop, fair play; but if talks stall, Pep’s lot have a habit of pouncing late. That keeps pressure on Liverpool to get Diomande over the line quickly rather than juggling too many plates.

Bottom line

PSG are in the driving seat for Akliouche, per Romano, and Liverpool — while admirers — seem locked on to Diomande as the statement piece for Iraola’s frontline overhaul. Secure the winger, add legs and bite behind him, and the new Reds could look a very different beast by August. Miss on both, though, and this rebuild risks starting a yard off the pace.