Manchester United and Manchester City have been dealt a significant blow in their pursuit of Monaco's Maghnes Akliouche after the forward revealed his desire to stay with the club next season.
The 23-year-old has risen through the ranks with the Ligue 1 outfit and has now enjoyed two impressive campaigns in the first team. Thirty one appearances yielded 12 goal contributions last term but the youngster has bettered that total this season with seven goals and 12 assists in 42 outings.
The right winger has helped secure Monaco's place in next term's Champions League with one game to spare in Ligue 1, while he's also racked up seven appearances for the France Under-21s. Naturally, such an impressive ascent has attracted suitors from across Europe.
Perennial French talent poachers Paris Saint-Germain have shown significant interest in Akliouche previously, while both Manchester giants have been reportedly keeping an eye on him. Unfortunately for his three suitors, however, the attacker is in no rush to leave Monaco.
Speaking after Saturday's victory over Lyon, Akliouche affirmed his commitment to his current employers: “I am under contract at Monaco and I hope that I will be here next season. Why not?”