According to reports, Manchester City must finish the season strongly to win this transfer battle, as securing a Champions League spot is a key condition for signing Akliouche.

Based on reports from L’Équipe, the versatile player, who can operate as a winger or attacking midfielder, has attracted the attention of European football giants with 6 goals and 10 assists in 37 games this season. He could be a suitable replacement for Kevin De Bruyne, Manchester City’s 33-year-old star who may leave, or Jack Grealish, who has been linked with a move to Tottenham.

Manchester City climbed to fourth place in the Premier League table after a 5-2 victory over Crystal Palace, but the race for Champions League qualification remains tight.

Aston Villa trails by one point in fifth place, while Newcastle and Chelsea, two points behind with a game in hand, pose a serious threat. On the other hand, Paris Saint-Germain, who are looking to strengthen their attack after failing to sign Mohamed Salah, have a better chance of signing Akliouche, as their guaranteed Champions League participation could tempt the player.

Akliouche’s contract with Monaco runs until 2028, giving the club significant leverage in negotiations for a substantial transfer fee.

Adi Hütter, Monaco’s head coach, and Thiago Scuro, the club’s executive director, have both stated that they expect offers for Akliouche in the summer. These comments suggest a high probability of the young star’s transfer during the summer window.

Given the interest from other clubs, including Newcastle, whose scouts monitored Akliouche’s performances for France’s U21 national team, the competition for his signature could intensify.