A €23m rated Roma midfielder inches ever closer to a Barcelona move as negotiations reach an advanced stage.
The Serie A side invested wisely last summer in a player who has quickly become indispensable, blending physical dominance, tactical smarts, and leadership qualities that evoke memories of elite Premier League performers.
Now, as his stock rises further on the international stage, Roma face the challenge of fending off admirers who see him as the perfect fit for their high-intensity systems.
That midfielder is Neil El Aynaoui, the 24-year-old Moroccan international recently dubbed the “new Declan Rice” after his standout performances for Roma and in the Africa Cup of Nations, as reported by Fichajes.
Barcelona is among the clubs closely monitoring the former recruit, who joined Roma for around €23 million and has since established himself as a key figure with his all-action style covering defensive duties and game-building.
His maturity, field coverage, and personality have made him a cornerstone of Roma’s medium-term plans, but the Catalans view him as an ideal reinforcement for their midfield.
However, the move remains a tall order for Barcelona. Roma’s recent investment has inflated his price tag well beyond the initial fee, and competition from Premier League suitors with deeper pockets only adds to the complexity.
Barça’s economic constraints demand precise operations, and while El Aynaoui’s profile aligns perfectly with their need for a durable, intelligent pivot, matching Roma’s demands would require significant creativity.
The Moroccan’s starring role in Morocco’s Africa Cup run, including guiding them to the final against Senegal, has amplified his appeal, drawing scouts from multiple top clubs.
Whether it’s Camp Nou or elsewhere, El Aynaoui’s future looks destined for bigger stages, with his Rice-like qualities making him one of the market’s most coveted midfielders.
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