Real Madrid and Barcelona are competing to sign 24-year-old AS Roma midfielder Neil El Aynaoui, who is gaining attention in the European market. His challenging situation at Roma may lead to a transfer this summer.
Real Madrid, Barcelona go head-to-head in race for 24-year-old Serie A midfield star
Real Madrid are once again scanning the European market for midfield reinforcement, and a new name has entered their radar – Neil El Aynaoui.
According to a report from MARCA, the 24-year-old AS Roma midfielder is attracting growing attention, with Barcelona and RB Leipzig also monitoring his situation ahead of the summer transfer window.
El Aynaoui only joined Roma in 2025 on a long-term deal, but his time in Italy has not gone according to plan.
Under Gian Piero Gasperini, the midfielder has struggled to fully establish himself, leading to growing uncertainty about his role moving forward.
Off the pitch, the situation has been even more challenging, as the player went through a traumatic incident in March 2026, when he was assaulted and kidnapped at his home.
The episode understandably had a significant emotional impact, with the player turning to the club for support, which Roma provided.
All of this has contributed to a feeling that a fresh start could be on the horizon.
Despite recent setbacks, El Aynaoui remains highly regarded, particularly at the international level with Morocco.
He is determined to rebuild momentum and sees the 2026 World Cup as a key opportunity to relaunch his career on the biggest stage.
A strong showing there could be the perfect platform for a move to one of Europe’s elite clubs, something that already appears to be within reach.
Real Madrid are tracking Neil El Aynaoui of AS Roma. (Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images)
From a footballing perspective, El Aynaoui offers a profile that modern teams value highly.
He combines tactical awareness with strong ball recovery skills, while also contributing progressively in attack.
His physical presence allows him to compete in demanding midfield battles, but it is his technical ability that has truly caught the eye of scouts.
That elegance on the ball is something he himself has linked to his childhood inspiration – Andres Iniesta.
Speaking about his influence after his move from RC Lens, he once said,
“As a child, I lived in Barcelona and was a Barça fan; I’ve always admired Iniesta,” he stated.
For Real Madrid, this is a familiar scenario.
While El Aynaoui may not yet belong to the same elite bracket as the very top midfielders in Europe, there is clear potential to develop further.
At this stage, the interest appears exploratory rather than advanced.
For now, Real Madrid are assessing profiles, and El Aynaoui fits the mould of a player who could grow into a key role with the right environment.
Real Madrid, Barcelona, and RB Leipzig are all monitoring the situation of Neil El Aynaoui.
Neil El Aynaoui is experiencing a difficult period at AS Roma, which has opened the door for a potential exit.
Neil El Aynaoui is 24 years old and plays as a midfielder.
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