Manchester United and Liverpool have initiated negotiations regarding the availability of Roma midfielder Nayel El-Aynawi, 25. The Moroccan international appeared in all four of Morocco's group-stage matches at the 2026 World Cup, demonstrating his importance to the national team.
El-Aynawi's contract with Roma runs until 2030, though the Serie A club is open to negotiating for a substantial offer. Roma values the midfielder at over €23m and is willing to sell for the right price, given competing interest from leading European clubs.
Transfer odds on Manchester United and Liverpool summer spending may shift as both clubs pursue additional midfield reinforcements beyond their traditional acquisition targets.
Nayel El-Aynawi was born on 2 July 2001, is a 24-year-old central midfielder who plays for AS Roma until 30 June 2030. He began his career in the youth academy of Nancy, where he made his professional debut in July 2021, then moved to Ligue 1 club Lens on a four-year deal in June 2023 before joining Roma in July 2025, and he represents Morocco at senior level, having also appeared for the Morocco U-23s in 2023.
Liverpool
Roma