Everton Enter Race for Ligue 1 Star Neil El Aynaoui Despite Roma Agreement – Transfer Tug-of-War Brewing
Everton have made a formal enquiry for RC Lens midfielder Neil El Aynaoui, setting the stage for a fascinating transfer tussle with Serie A giants AS Roma, TEAMtalk has exclusively learned.
While both clubs are owned by the Friedkin Group, their transfer strategies remain independent of one another — and both are keen to bolster their midfield options ahead of the new season. With Roma having already reached a verbal agreement with the 24-year-old, Everton’s interest has the potential to spark a complex intra-ownership bidding war.
Roma’s Deal Not Yet Sealed
Roma have been in pole position to land El Aynaoui for several weeks. The Moroccan international has reportedly agreed in principle to a long-term contract with the Italian outfit that would run until 2030. However, Roma are also pursuing Brazilian midfielder Richard Rios from Palmeiras and are unlikely to sign both players.
That indecision may now prove costly, with Everton — and Premier League rivals Crystal Palace — making moves in recent days to assess El Aynaoui’s situation. While Roma remain optimistic, the delay in finalizing their move could open the door for the Toffees to swoop in.
Lens Stand Firm on Valuation
Despite growing interest, RC Lens are under no financial pressure to sell. The midfielder is contracted until 2027 and is considered a vital part of the squad. The French club has set a firm asking price of at least €30 million (£25.9 million/$35 million) — a figure they are reportedly unwilling to compromise on.
El Aynaoui has impressed in Ligue 1, scoring eight goals in 24 appearances last season. He also featured in a pre-season friendly against Standard Liege as recently as June 12, highlighting that manager Pierre Sage still views him as an integral part of the team.
Speaking after the friendly, Sage addressed the speculation directly:
> “If Neil was on the verge of leaving, he wouldn’t have played a single minute today. That tells you everything about where things currently stand.”
Everton’s Midfield Overhaul Underway
El Aynaoui is one of several midfielders on Everton’s summer wishlist. The Toffees are also engaged in negotiations with Juventus over a potential deal for Brazilian international Douglas Luiz. A €25 million (£21.6m/$29.2m) bid could be enough to tempt Juve into parting ways with the former Aston Villa man — although Everton face stiff competition from at least four other English clubs.
Manager David Moyes is pushing for midfield reinforcements, with a particular focus on adding depth and competition for established names like Idrissa Gana Gueye, James Garner, and recent acquisition Tim Iroegbunam.
Gueye, now 35, recently signed a one-year extension but cannot be relied upon as a long-term solution. The club is therefore eager to invest in younger, dynamic players who can make an impact both immediately and over the coming seasons.
Ownership Dynamics Add Intrigue
The shared ownership between Everton and Roma adds a unique wrinkle to the unfolding situation. While both clubs report to the Friedkin Group, they operate distinct scouting departments, budgets, and sporting directors. As a result, direct competition for a player — especially one as promising as El Aynaoui — is not off-limits.
With Roma yet to commit to either El Aynaoui or Rios, and with Everton now asking detailed questions about the Lens man’s availability, a crucial few weeks lie ahead. Whether Everton proceed with a formal offer may depend on how talks with Douglas Luiz progress and how receptive Lens are to negotiations.
Meanwhile, Crystal Palace remain on the sidelines, watching developments carefully. While their interest is considered less advanced, they could enter the fray if the asking price drops or negotiations stall between the other parties.
What Happens Next?
As things stand, Neil El Aynaoui is still a Lens player — and a valued one at that. But the mounting interest from two clubs with common ownership, plus an ambitious Palace lurking in the background, suggests that his future may yet lie away from Ligue 1.
Whether it’s Everton or Roma who win the race — or if another Premier League club jumps in — one thing is certain: Neil El Aynaoui is a man in demand this summer.