AS Roma have successfully secured the signing of RC Lens midfielder Neil El Aynaoui in a deal worth €25 million, marking the completion of one of the most pursued transfers of the summer window. The 22-year-old Moroccan international is set to join the Giallorossi on a five-year contract, becoming Roma’s first major signing of the 2025 summer transfer period.
The comprehensive deal structure sees Roma paying RC Lens an initial fee of €23 million, with an additional €2 million in performance-related bonuses, bringing the total package to €25 million. According to multiple sources, the agreement also includes a percentage of any future sale value, showing Roma’s long-term investment strategy. The transfer is a big profit for RC Lens, who originally acquired El Aynaoui from Nancy for a considerably lower fee.
Medical Examination and Final Procedures
El Aynaoui has been granted permission by RC Lens to travel to Rome for his medical examination, which is expected to take place in the coming days. The Moroccan midfielder is anticipated to arrive in the Italian capital shortly to complete the final administrative procedures required for his integration into Roma’s squad. The medical is the final hurdle before the official announcement of his signing.
Player Profile and Recent Performance
The 22-year-old midfielder enjoyed an impressive 2024-25 campaign with RC Lens, contributing eight goals and one assist in 24 Ligue 1 appearances. El Aynaoui’s versatility in midfield positions and his ability to contribute in both defensive and offensive phases made him an attractive target for Roma. The Morocco international, who was contracted with Lens until June 2027, has established himself as one of the most promising midfield talents in French football.
Negotiation Timeline and Breakthrough
The transfer saga witnessed several twists, with Roma initially having a €20 million offer rejected by RC Lens approximately one week ago. The French club had attempted to retain their star player by offering him an improved contract, but El Aynaoui’s desire to move to Serie A ultimately prevailed. Roma’s persistence paid off when they increased their offer to meet Lens’ valuation, with the verbal agreement reached within the last 24 hours.
Strategic Context and Alternative Targets
Roma’s successful pursuit of El Aynaoui comes after complications arose in their primary target pursuit of Richard Rios from Palmeiras. The constant back-and-forth negotiations with the Brazilian club and Palmeiras’ demanding stance led Roma to prioritize the El Aynaoui deal. Despite securing the Lens midfielder, Roma continue to maintain dialogue regarding other targets including Wesley and Evan Ferguson, indicating their ambition to strengthen multiple positions.
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Impact on Squad Dynamics
The signing addresses a crucial area of Roma’s squad, providing manager Gian Piero Gasperini with additional midfield options for the upcoming season. El Aynaoui’s technical ability, combined with his youth and potential for development, aligns with Roma’s strategy of building a competitive squad capable of challenging for European qualification. His arrival is expected to add depth and quality to Roma’s midfield department.
Contract Terms and Integration Plans
The five-year contract shows Roma’s commitment to El Aynaoui’s long-term development within their system. The deal structure suggests confidence in the player’s ability to adapt to Serie A football and contribute significantly to Roma’s objectives. The club’s sporting project reportedly played a key role in convincing the midfielder to choose Roma over other interested parties.
AS Roma’s successful completion of the Neil El Aynaoui transfer is a major coup in the competitive transfer market. The €25 million investment shows the club’s ambition to strengthen their squad with proven talent, while El Aynaoui’s arrival provides immediate quality and future potential. With the medical test imminent and contract terms agreed, the official announcement is expected within days, marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter for both player and club in their respective Serie A and European aspirations.
