RB Leipzig sign Morocco international Neil El Aynaoui

RB Leipzig have completed a late move for Morocco international Neil El Aynaoui, bringing the midfielder from AS Roma on loan.

The deal reportedly includes a 4 million euro loan fee and a purchase option worth 25 million euros next summer. The transfer came as a surprise because few had linked the 25-year-old with Leipzig before the move.

Leipzig sporting managing director Marcel Schäfer said El Aynaoui brings running power and aggression. “He brings a lot of running power and aggression, is very intense against the ball and can also provide dynamism and solutions in midfield through his ability on the ball,” Schäfer said in a club statement. “He is present on both sides of the ball and can cover large spaces.”

The 1.85-metre midfielder is expected to play mainly as an advanced central midfielder, although he can also operate as a defensive midfielder. Leipzig believe his versatility will give the Champions League participant more options in midfield.

Born in France, El Aynaoui began his professional career at AS Nancy before joining RC Lens in 2023. He moved to AS Roma a year ago and now continues his career in the Bundesliga. He is the son of former tennis professional Younes El Aynaoui and represented Morocco at this summer’s World Cup.

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He brings a lot of running power and aggression, is very intense against the ball and can also provide dynamism and solutions in midfield through his ability on the ball. He is present on both sides of the ball and can cover large spaces.