AS Roma reach verbal agreement for El Aynaoui after Rios talks stall | OneFootball

AS Roma have struck a verbal agreement with RC Lens for the signing of midfielder Neil El Aynaoui (h/t journalist Gianluca Di Marzio).

Despite having multiple bids rejected, the Giallorossi have submitted a fresh offer worth €25 million plus bonuses to secure approval from the Ligue 1 club.

The French-Moroccan midfielder has already agreed terms on a five-year contract until 2030 with Roma.

The Italian capital club have turned their attention towards El Aynaoui after talks with Palmeiras midfielder Richard Rios hit a snag.

They have grown impatient with the Brazilian club’s lack of response despite submitting a bid worth €30 million, including bonuses.

Roma believe that Palmeiras are holding out to trigger a bidding war for the Colombian international, who is wanted by Nottingham Forest, Wolverhampton Wanderers and Inter Milan.

The Giallorossi are planning to advance their negotiations with El Aynaoui if they don’t receive an answer from Palmeiras by Friday.

Bolstering the midfield is one of Roma’s priorities following the departure of Leandro Paredes to Boca Juniors.

El Aynaoui enjoyed an impressive breakout campaign with Lens last season, bagging eight goals and one assist in 25 league games.

The 24-year-old’s knack for goals, passing repertoire and defensive solidity would be a huge asset for Roma.

Gasperini is also an admirer of Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Matt O’Riley and wants to bring him to the Stadio Olimpico this summer.

Roma are in talks to sign Brighton striker Evan Ferguson, who is keen on joining the Italian giants.

The Seagulls are demanding around €40 million but are ready to reduce the loan fee for the Republic of Ireland forward.