Neil El Aynaoui is on the brink of a move to the Bundesliga. According to transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano, RB Leipzig has reached an agreement with AS Roma for the temporary signing of the Moroccan midfielder. The deal includes a €25 million purchase option to make the transfer permanent.
Neil El Aynaoui appears to be putting his time at AS Roma behind him, at least temporarily. The 24-year-old Moroccan international is close to a switch to RB Leipzig, who want to secure the midfielder on a loan deal.
The German club will reportedly pay a loan fee of €4 million. Furthermore, Leipzig will have the opportunity to sign El Aynaoui permanently at the end of the season for a fee of €25 million.
While not a permanent transfer immediately, the agreement gives Leipzig the option to secure the Moroccan on a long-term basis should he prove himself in Germany.
A New Opportunity in the Bundesliga
For El Aynaoui, the potential transfer means both a new environment and a new league. Following his spell in Italy, the midfielder now has the chance to test himself in the Bundesliga.
Competition in Roma's midfield has increased significantly. The Italian club brought in several new players this summer, making El Aynaoui's prospects of securing a regular starting role less favorable.
A move to Leipzig could therefore provide him with the playing time and responsibility he is looking for.
Growing Interest
El Aynaoui's market value has risen sharply in recent times. His development at both club and international levels has attracted mounting interest from various European leagues.
The Moroccan midfielder has also been linked with several clubs in England. His performances during the 2026 World Cup further intensified that interest.
El Aynaoui was part of the Morocco squad that ultimately reached the quarterfinals of the tournament.
Leipzig Secures €25 Million Option
The structure of the potential transfer is particularly noteworthy because of the purchase option.
RB Leipzig is not forced to buy El Aynaoui immediately, allowing them a full season to assess how he adapts to the Bundesliga. If the midfielder makes a strong impression, the German club can then trigger the €25 million fee to make the transfer permanent.
For Roma, this structure means the club could still collect a substantial transfer fee in the future, while minimizing Leipzig's immediate financial risk.
Another Moroccan in Germany?
Should the deal be finalized, El Aynaoui will have the chance to showcase his qualities once again in one of Europe's top five leagues.
The Bundesliga is renowned for its high intensity and pace, and Leipzig has built a strong reputation over recent years for developing young, talented players.
For the Moroccan international, this could prove to be a crucial next step in his European career.
El Aynaoui is therefore facing a fresh challenge: initially on loan, but with the prospect of establishing himself permanently in Germany.