Crystal Palace target Roma midfielder El Aynaoui
Quick summary
Crystal Palace are reportedly interested in signing Roma midfielder El Aynaoui during the transfer window.
Full article
Attributed to original sourceCrystal Palace have identified Neil El Aynaoui as a target as they look to strengthen their midfield before the transfer window closes.
According to Foot Mercato , the Roma midfielder is one of two Morocco internationals on the Eagles’ list, alongside Rennes defender Abdelhamid Ait Boudlal.
The outlet reports that both players are receptive to the interest and drawn to the prospect of a move to the Premier League.
ROME, ITALY – APRIL 18: Ederson of Atalanta challenges Neil El Aynaoui of AS Roma during the Serie A match between AS Roma and Atalanta BC at Stadio Olimpico on April 18, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images) Crystal Palace seek reinforcements like El Aynaoui after Sage’s losing start The urgency stems from a difficult opening under Pierre Sage, whose first match in charge ended in a 2-0 defeat at Everton. The London club’s hierarchy are working to add depth in midfield and central defence before the deadline.
El Aynaoui joined Roma from Lens last summer and has been used as a squad option under Gian Piero Gasperini rather than a guaranteed starter.
He came off the bench in the closing stages of Monday’s 4-0 win over Fiorentina, with Bryan Cristante and Manu Kone preferred in the starting eleven.
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What happened
Premier League side Crystal Palace have set their sights on Roma midfielder El Aynaoui as a potential transfer target. The move would see the player leave Serie A for the English top flight. Details on the fee or stage of negotiations remain unclear, with the link appearing to be at an early stage of speculation.
Chance analysis
Crystal Palace's reported interest in El Aynaoui highlights their continued scouting of technically gifted midfielders from Serie A. Roma may be open to negotiations as they look to reshape their squad, while Palace's recruitment strategy suggests they are targeting players capable of adding creativity and ball progression to their midfield. A potential move would represent a notable cross-league transfer if it materializes.
Crystal Palace could strengthen their midfield with a technically capable player, while Roma would lose a squad option if a deal is completed.