Paris Saint-Germain have taken the lead in the chase for AS Monaco attacker Maghnes Akliouche, putting Manchester United and Newcastle United on notice. That’s according to transfer insider Fabrizio Romano, who says the European champions are now the frontrunners to land the 24-year-old French international.
Akliouche just finished a solid season in Ligue 1 — six goals and six assists in 31 appearances — but the numbers undersell the kid. He’s the kind of wide player who makes defenders look silly one-on-one and can thread a pass through a keyhole. Standing six feet tall, he’s got the frame for England and the work rate out of possession that managers love. He can play either flank or tuck inside if needed. That versatility is part of why United’s front office has had him on the radar.
Why United and Newcastle are sweating
Manchester United have bigger fish to fry this summer — they need midfield help badly — but Michael Carrick could also use another body up front. Akliouche fits that profile. Newcastle have kicked the tires too, and Monaco is bracing for bids. The club knows their guy is ready to test himself at a higher level.
But here’s the problem for the Premier League clubs: Akliouche grew up in Paris. PSG can offer him home, the Champions League trophy, and the chance to play under the lights at the Parc des Princes every week. Romano posted on social media that talks and approaches are intensifying, and Monaco expects offers to arrive soon.
Romano specifically said PSG are “leading the race ahead of two Premier League clubs.” He didn’t name them, but you can do the math.
Can United flip the script again?
United have been here before with PSG. In 2024, they beat the Parisians to the signing of Leny Yoro, a French teenage defender who had offers everywhere. So INEOS has a track record of convincing top French talents to pick Old Trafford over their hometown club. That might matter here.
But this is different. PSG just won the Champions League again, beating Arsenal on penalties last month. They’re the reigning kings of Europe. Akliouche is at the World Cup right now representing France. By the time he gets back, the bidding could already be underway.
Monaco has already started preparing for life without him. They know what’s coming. The only question now is where he lands — and whether United can pull off another Paris heist.
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