Fakayejo Paul
Rome, Italy / Lens, France – AS Roma are pushing hard to secure the signing of talented midfielder Neil El Aynaoui, with direct contact taking place today between the Giallorossi and RC Lens to iron out the final details of a potential transfer.
The deal for the 24-year-old French-Moroccan is understood to be at an advanced stage across all parties.
El Aynaoui has already given his personal approval, having agreed to a five-year contract with AS Roma until June 2030, clearly indicating his desire to move to the Italian capital.
However, RC Lens is holding firm on their valuation and has asked Roma to improve their current bid to seal the agreement.
While reports from earlier this week suggested Roma had tabled an offer around €22 million plus €3 million in bonuses, Lens is believed to be pushing for a figure closer to €25 million plus add-ons, or potentially even €30 million, recognizing the strong interest in their key player.
El Aynaoui had an impressive breakout campaign last season, bagging eight goals and one assist in 25 Ligue 1 appearances.
Roma’s pursuit of El Aynaoui has intensified recently, especially as talks for other midfield targets, such as Richard Rios from Palmeiras, have reportedly stalled.
Under new manager Gian Piero Gasperini, bolstering the midfield is a top priority, and El Aynaoui’s blend of goal-scoring ability, passing range, and defensive solidity makes him a highly attractive prospect.
With the player’s personal terms agreed and clubs in direct dialogue, the coming hours and days will be crucial.
Roma will need to decide if they are willing to meet Lens’s demands to secure their desired midfield reinforcement, or if the French club’s resolve will force them to explore alternative options.