Abdulhafiz TeslimThe race for one of the breakout stars of the 2026 FIFA World Cup is beginning to intensify, with Morocco international midfielder Neil El Aynaoui attracting widespread interest from across the Premier League following a series of outstanding displays on football’s biggest stage.
According to reports from TeamTalk, no fewer than nine English clubs have already made enquiries regarding the 25-year-old’s availability through intermediaries. Among those monitoring the situation are Manchester United, Liverpool FC, Chelsea FC, Aston Villa FC, Brighton & Hove Albion FC, AFC Bournemouth, Newcastle United FC, Everton FC and newly promoted Sunderland AFC.
El Aynaoui has emerged as one of the surprise stars of Morocco’s impressive World Cup campaign. While much of the pre-tournament attention surrounding the Atlas Lions centred on teenage sensation Ayyoub Bouaddi, it has been El Aynaoui’s commanding midfield performances that have truly captured the attention of scouts across Europe.
The midfielder has impressed with his composure on the ball, tactical intelligence, defensive discipline and ability to control matches against elite opposition. His performances against footballing giants including Brazil and the Netherlands have reportedly convinced several Premier League clubs that he is ready to make the step up to English football.
Currently playing for AS Roma, El Aynaoui only arrived in Italy last summer after completing a move from RC Lens. Despite showing flashes of his quality in Serie A, he has not always been a guaranteed starter under manager Gian Piero Gasperini, a situation that could encourage interested clubs to test Roma’s resolve this summer.
For Newcastle United, the interest is particularly intriguing. The Magpies continue to explore several midfield options as they prepare for another ambitious season under Eddie Howe. El Aynaoui’s energy, versatility and ability to operate both defensively and offensively would fit perfectly into Newcastle’s high-intensity style of play.
Manchester United and Liverpool are also understood to be among the clubs most impressed by the Moroccan international’s displays. Both sides are looking to strengthen their midfield departments this summer, with El Aynaoui emerging as a potential value signing compared to some of Europe’s more established stars.
Interest in El Aynaoui is not limited to England. Reports earlier this year suggested that both Real Madrid CF and FC Barcelona had been monitoring the midfielder closely following his impressive performances at the Africa Cup of Nations, and his stock has only continued to rise during the World Cup.
As the transfer window gathers pace, Neil El Aynaoui is quickly becoming one of the most sought-after midfielders in European football. While no official offers have yet been submitted, the growing list of admirers suggests that Roma may soon face a difficult decision over the future of one of Morocco’s brightest stars.
admin
