Lens midfielder Neil El Aynaoui, 24, is on the verge of completing a significant €25 million transfer to AS Roma. The highly anticipated move is contingent upon a successful medical examination, which is scheduled for this Sunday. Following the medical, the former Morocco U23 international is expected to finalize a five-year contract with the Serie A powerhouse, affectionately known as the Giallorossi.
Commenting on El Aynaoui’s impending departure, Lens head coach Pierre Sage remarked, “When both clubs reach an agreement and the player is presented with such a compelling opportunity, everything falls into place. I have full confidence in the players who will step into his role. We are prepared to move forward with the talent we have.”
El Aynaoui honed his skills within the Nancy Academy, where he made 61 appearances for the club during their tenure in the French third tier. His journey led him to Lens in July 2023, where he rapidly integrated into life at the Stade Bollaert-Delelis.
In his debut season with Les Sang et Or, he showcased his potential by featuring in 31 matches, including three starts in the prestigious UEFA Champions League. The 2024-25 campaign marked his most prolific period to date, as he impressively netted eight goals from midfield across just 24 Ligue 1 appearances.
Sources indicate that El Aynaoui bid an emotional farewell to his Lens teammates this Saturday. The 24-year-old is reportedly set to travel to the Italian capital tonight, ahead of his scheduled medical assessment tomorrow.
