AS Roma Close in on Neil El Aynaoui Transfer After Player Accepts Offer

AS Roma are close to signing Neil El Aynaoui from RC Lens. The midfielder has agreed to join the Italian club on a five-year contract until June 2030, as confirmed by a recent report. The two clubs are now in talks to finalize the transfer, although Lens is seeking a better offer to complete the deal.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Neil El Aynaoui has agreed to a long-term contract with Roma, which will run until June 2030. The club sees him as an important addition to their midfield due to his physical and technical abilities. After convincing the 22-year-old Moroccan international, Roma are now focused on agreeing terms with RC Lens, who are firm in their financial demands. Roma’s initial offer of €20 million was rejected, with Lens seeking €30 million for El Aynaoui, who was one of their standout performers last season. He played 24 matches, scored eight goals, and provided one assist in the 2024/25 season, despite some injury issues. While Everton also showed interest, El Aynaoui prefers to join Roma, which reflects his eagerness to make the move according to reports.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Rome’s midfield overhaul has gained momentum this summer as the club looks to strengthen their squad following a difficult Serie A campaign. Last season, Roma finished fifth, narrowly missing out on a Champions League spot, and the gap to the top four remains a major concern. El Aynaoui’s consistency for Lens, who finished ninth in Ligue 1, has caught the attention of clubs across Europe. Securing his transfer would be a statement move as Roma aim to return to being one of Italy’s top teams, especially with rivals strengthening their squads across the league. Lens, on the other hand, are under pressure to secure maximum value for one of their young stars after a disappointing domestic season.

WHAT NEXT?

Roma face Coppa Italia winners Bologna in their Serie A opener in three weeks’ time. The team will want El Aynaoui registered and integrated as soon as possible to strengthen their midfield. Meanwhile, negotiations between Roma and Lens are expected to intensify in the coming days, with a revised bid from Roma likely to break the deadlock. With only a small points gap separating Roma and their rivals last season, the club hopes that signing El Aynaoui will give them the edge needed to break into the top four. Lens will also start their Ligue 1 season soon, hoping to rebuild after losing such a key midfielder.