Juventus chase El Aynaoui as Lens spark midfield bidding war | OneFootball

Juventus are weighing up a move for RC Lens midfielder Neil El Aynaoui, according to reports emerging from France and Italy. The Franco-Moroccan, 24, has attracted increasing attention after a standout Ligue 1 campaign in which he scored 8 goals across 24 appearances.

El Aynaoui is under contract with Lens until June 2027, a factor that is expected to give the French club significant leverage in any negotiation. Lens acquired the midfielder from Nancy for a reported €600,000. After developing into a key starter over the past season, the club is now seeking a substantial return on their investment. According to sources cited in the Italian and French press, Lens recently turned down a €20 million offer from AS Roma, signalling their high valuation of the player.

Juventus have reportedly identified El Aynaoui as a target as they seek to bolster their midfield with younger, technically skilled players. The club’s recent recruitment has leaned towards players with potential for further growth, a profile that matches El Aynaoui’s development trajectory. Juventus are also keeping tabs on Atalanta’s Ederson as a potential alternative, but El Aynaoui’s combination of work rate, athleticism and composure in possession fits the mould sought by the Turin club’s technical staff.

No official bid from Juventus has been disclosed, and reports indicate the club is still weighing its options. Juventus will face competition for the midfielder’s signature. Both Aston Villa and Lazio are monitoring the situation, and the presence of multiple suitors could trigger a bidding war over the coming weeks. Lens’ willingness to sell may depend on their broader financial planning for the summer, with player sales seen as a possible source of revenue.

El Aynaoui’s ability to operate both as a central and defensive midfielder, coupled with his goal-scoring contributions last season, have made him one of Ligue 1’s more sought-after players in his position. With no formal statements issued by either club or the player’s representatives, speculation is likely to continue, especially given Juventus’ ongoing search for midfield reinforcements.

As the summer transfer window progresses, the focus will remain on whether Juventus can meet Lens’ valuation and convince El Aynaoui to make the move to Turin, amid competition from other clubs looking to secure the midfielder’s services. This situation was first reported by sources in the French and Italian football media.

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