Official: El Aynaoui joins RB Leipzig on loan with option to buy from Roma
Quick summary
RB Leipzig have completed the signing of El Aynaoui from AS Roma on loan with an option to buy, confirmed by both clubs.
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Attributed to original sourceAfter some tension, Roma have officially loaned Neil El Aynaoui to RB Leipzig with an option to buy at the end of the season for a reported total fee of around €30-32m.
The midfielder had already flown out for his medical tests when French sources reported some problems discussing personal terms, which risked wrecking the whole move in the final hours of the transfer window.
However, those issues were resolved, and the player put pen to paper this evening.
El Aynaoui profit for Roma ROME, ITALY – NOVEMBER 27: Neil El Aynaoui of AS Roma celebrates with his teammate after scoring the opening goal during the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 League Phase MD5 match between AS Roma and FC Midtjylland at Stadio Olimpico on November 27, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images) It is believed to be a paid loan at €4m with option to buy at the end of the season for another €25-28m including add-ons.
The Morocco international was only purchased last summer from RC Lens for €23.5m plus a cut of the sell-on fee, but struggled to get regular playing time.
BOLOGNA, ITALY – MARCH 12: Joao Mario of Bologna is challenged by Neil El Aynaoui of AS Roma during the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 Round of 16 First Leg match between Bologna FC 1909 and AS Roma at Stadio Renato Dall’Ara on March 12, 2026 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images) El Aynaoui leaves Roma after two goals in 35 competitive appearances in the Giallorossi jersey.
It was meant to be an active day for Roma, hoping to bring in Jamie Leweling from VfB Stuttgart for €35m, but the negotiations took too long and there was no agreement.
They also refused to listen to a proposal from Chelsea for Manu Kone, as coach Gian Piero Gasperini put a veto on the sale.
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What happened
RB Leipzig have officially secured the services of El Aynaoui from Serie A side AS Roma on a loan deal that includes an option to purchase. The move marks a notable step in the player's development, as he heads to the Bundesliga from Italian football. Both clubs have confirmed the transfer, signaling Leipzig's intent to strengthen their squad ahead of the new season. The option to buy clause gives Leipzig flexibility to assess the midfielder's fit before committing to a permanent transfer.
Chance analysis
El Aynaoui's switch from Roma to RB Leipzig is a significant career move for the young midfielder, offering him the chance to develop in one of Europe's top developmental leagues. Leipzig have a well-established track record of nurturing young talent and maximizing value, which suggests Roma are trusting the German club to help their player progress. The loan-with-option structure is a common modern transfer mechanism, giving Leipzig a trial period before committing financially. For Roma, it frees up squad space and potentially generates future revenue depending on Leipzig's decision.
Roma lose a squad option in midfield while RB Leipzig gain a young addition who could feature immediately or develop over the season.