Report: El Aynaoui faces big decision as Sunderland join transfer race | OneFootball

AS Roma Make Move for El Aynaoui as RC Lens Brace for More Departures

RC Lens find themselves in the thick of a lively summer transfer window, with activity on both ends of the pitch. The club has already reinforced its squad with goalkeeper Robin Risser on a five-year deal and has welcomed back Guinean forward Morgan Guilavogui. They have also agreed terms with Brondby’s Mathias Kvistgaarden, a 23-year-old striker expected to bolster their attack.

As Jean-Louis Leca, the new sporting director, explained, “We’ll already have to see who leaves. We’ll have to make some adjustments.” His remarks reflect a cautious approach to squad building, with Lens keen not to overcommit before assessing potential exits.

One of the most high-profile names potentially on the way out is Neil El Aynaoui. The 24-year-old midfielder has become a cornerstone at Lens after another strong season featuring eight assists and one goal. With a contract that runs until 2027, he represents not only a tactical asset but also a considerable financial one.

Interest grows from top European clubs

Foot Mercato reports that several major European clubs have registered interest in El Aynaoui, with Italian giants leading the chase. AS Roma have taken concrete steps by entering discussions with Lens, and insider Matteo Moretto has revealed that an initial offer of €20 million has already been made. That figure is yet to be accepted, but negotiations are expected to continue over the coming days.

Juventus and AC Milan are also said to be monitoring the situation closely, while Premier League sides Leeds United, Wolverhampton Wanderers and Championship outfit Sunderland are all tracking the player. El Aynaoui, for his part, appears ready for a fresh challenge, with Foot Mercato stating: “He wants to discover a new league despite interest from French clubs.”

Roma’s interest makes sense. Jose Mourinho’s successors continue to reshape the squad with youth and dynamism, and El Aynaoui, a product of AS Nancy-Lorraine, fits the brief. His composure in midfield and growing leadership make him an appealing prospect for clubs with European aspirations.

Lens reluctant to let star man go

While Lens have already seen Facundo Medina depart for Marseille, the club’s leadership is reportedly keen to avoid a fire sale. Keeping El Aynaoui is a priority, and the internal feeling is that he has not yet reached his peak.

Will Still, his former manager, captured that sentiment succinctly: “You want to build something around him because he’s still young. He still has a lot to do here. I think he has a leadership role in the team that he’s starting to embrace too.”

That vision, however, may soon be challenged. Should Roma or any of the other suitors return with an improved offer, the financial incentive may be hard to ignore. For a club like Lens, balancing long-term sporting success with financial sustainability is a delicate operation. If they can extract a sizeable fee and reinvest wisely, it might be a pragmatic decision.

Player profile and future prospects

El Aynaoui’s game is built around technical intelligence, efficient distribution and a strong work ethic. He is the kind of midfielder who does the basics extremely well and increasingly adds progressive elements to his play. His eight assists in the 2023-24 season demonstrate a growing influence in attacking transitions, while his tactical discipline allows others around him greater freedom.

Clubs like Roma and Juventus value these qualities. For Sunderland, Leeds and Wolves, El Aynaoui could offer both stability and a touch of flair in midfield. His adaptability across various midfield roles adds value, especially in more physically demanding leagues like the Premier League.

With clubs circling and Lens already busy reshaping their squad, the coming weeks are likely to determine whether El Aynaoui stays in France or tests himself abroad.

Our View – EPL Index

From a Sunderland supporter’s perspective, the possibility of Neil El Aynaoui arriving at the Stadium of Light would be met with a mix of excitement and cautious optimism. The club, aiming to build on recent momentum, has already shown a willingness to recruit high-quality players capable of making the leap to Premier League level. El Aynaoui fits that profile well.

His style of play would complement the likes of Dan Neil and Pierre Ekwah, offering a composed presence in midfield and someone who could unlock deeper defences with clever passes. He also has experience in high-pressure games at Lens, which could prove invaluable in the Championship’s chaotic pace.

The biggest concern for fans would be whether Sunderland can realistically compete with clubs like Roma or Milan financially and in terms of footballing ambition. The Championship, while competitive, does not offer European football or the immediate spotlight that Serie A does.

However, if the Black Cats could somehow win this race, it would signal a major coup and a clear statement of intent from the ownership. El Aynaoui is the type of player who could not only help win promotion but thrive in the Premier League if the team achieves it.