News Focus
- Two Ligue 1 heavyweights want to sign the Moroccan international from Belgium
- The right-back recently won the Ébène trophy for the best African player in the Belgian league
- Genk paid only €2.5 million for him in 2023 but his value has now jumped to €15 million
- He has started all 41 matches this season, scoring 12 goals and creating five assists
- Dutch champions PSV Eindhoven are also monitoring the transfer situation closely
A major transfer fight is brewing in France. Olympique Lyonnais and Olympique de Marseille are both eager to sign Zakaria El Ouahdi from KRC Genk.
The 24-year-old defender has become a key player for the Belgian club. He plays mainly as a right-back but can also operate as a wing-back. His performances this season have attracted attention from several top European clubs.
El Ouahdi moved to Genk from RWDM in 2023. The transfer fee was just €2.5 million. Now, experts value him at around €15 million. This sharp rise shows how much he has improved under manager Nicky Hayen.
The Moroccan star has been ever-present this term. He has started every one of his 41 games. During these matches, he has scored 12 goals and provided five assists. These are excellent numbers for a defender.
Last month, he received the Ébène trophy. This prize honours the best African or African-born footballer in the Belgian top division. Winning this award has increased his profile across the continent.
PSV Eindhoven from the Netherlands also want to sign the player. However, the strongest interest comes from the French league. Both Lyon and Marseille see him as the perfect addition to strengthen their defence.
The player was born in Antwerp but represents Morocco. He has two caps for the Atlas Lions. He featured in their recent 2-1 friendly win against Paraguay.
Genk hold a strong position in negotiations. El Ouahdi’s contract runs until 2028. The club can demand a high price if they decide to sell this summer.