Neil El Aynaoui attracting interest from Real Madrid and Barcelona

Neil El Aynaoui is attracting interest from several European giants, including Real Madrid and FC Barcelona, Marca reported today.

“Real Madrid and Barcelona are following Neil El Aynaoui,” the Spanish outlet wrote, confirming the growing attention surrounding the Moroccan midfielder currently playing for AS Roma. 

This comes as the former RC Lens player continues to draw widespread interest despite a difficult spell in Italy.

Under the management of Gian Piero Gasperini, El Aynaoui has struggled to establish himself as an undisputed starter at Roma. El Aynaoui “is not going through his best moment at Roma,” added the Marca report, explaining that the Moroccan’s limited playing time in the Italian capital is one of the primary factors that could push both player and club to consider options in the upcoming summer transfer window. El Aynaoui joined Roma in July 2025 for a reported €25 million, arriving with the reputation of being one of Europe’s most promising midfield prospects. But his role at club level has been inconsistent. 

Meanwhile, the 24-year-old midfielder has proved his worth with those international performances with the Atlas Lions.

His profile reportedly caught the attention of Spanish scouts following an impressive AFCON 2025 campaign, where he was easily one of Morocco’s most important players throughout the tournament. His displays with the Lions of the Atlas reinforced his reputation as a modern midfielder capable of dictating the rhythm of the game and covering large areas of the pitch.

Making El Aynaoui stand out is his well-rounded presence in the midfield. In addition to boasting the physical presence and the tactical intelligence to control the game, he is just as good at defending as he is at joining the attack. The Maraca report also mentions an important personal detail in the Moroccan international’s journey: his admiration for Andrés Iniesta. “As a child, I lived in Barcelona and supported Barcelona; I have always loved Iniesta,” the Spanish outlet quoted the player recalling.  Alongside Real Madrid and Barcelona, RB Leipzig are also said to be closely monitoring his situation, making him one of the names to watch ahead of the summer market.

Read also: Neil El Aynaoui Reportedly Open To AS Roma Exit Over Limited Playing Time

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