Everton and Crystal Palace are intensifying their efforts to acquire KRC Genk defender Zakaria El Ouahdi. Reports from Belgium indicate that a deal could materialize this month, with Het Laatste Nieuws confirming that both Premier League clubs view the 24-year-old Moroccan international as a valuable addition to bolster their squads during the winter transfer window.
Zakaria El Ouahdi: A Key Target for Everton and Crystal Palace
This follows previous news from Africa Foot, which stated that Palace and Everton had already made inquiries regarding a potential transfer. It appears that the player is awaiting concrete offers from England, while Bundesliga side VfB Stuttgart is also monitoring his situation closely.
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El Ouahdi has been enjoying a strong spell in the Jupiler Pro League, securing a regular spot in the starting lineup. This season, he has contributed four goals and two assists in 20 appearances. His performance has garnered attention from scouts searching for dynamic attacking full-backs.
While Genk is reluctant to part with a key player mid-season, they may consider a sale if a suitable offer arises. Journalist Sacha Tavolieri previously reported that Genk is seeking between €10 million and €12 million, a figure that aligns with the budgets of both English clubs. Consequently, speculation is rife that El Ouahdi could be making a significant career move ahead of the January transfer deadline.
Analysis: Is El Ouahdi the Right Fit for David Moyes?
SAINT-ETIENNE, FRANCE – JULY 24: Zakaria El Ouahdi #11 of Team Morocco is challenged by Thiago Almada #10 of Team Argentina during their Men’s group B match at the Olympic Games Paris 2024 at Stade Geoffroy-Guichard on July 24, 2024. (Photo by Tullio M. Puglia/Getty Images)
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David Moyes may require fresh talent on the right flank. Seamus Coleman has been a stalwart for over a decade, but time eventually catches up with everyone. Everton will need a player with the stamina to cover the entire wing while also possessing the ability to contribute offensively.
Zakaria El Ouahdi seems to be an ideal fit. His goal-scoring record in Belgium indicates he knows how to find the right position in the box—something Moyes typically values in his wide defenders.
The rumored transfer fee appears to be a bargain for a player who has yet to reach his prime. While Moyes generally relies on disciplined defenders, El Ouahdi brings a level of energy that could ease the burden on Everton’s attacking players. Transitioning from the Belgian league to the Premier League poses its challenges, particularly due to the physical nature of the English game.
Nevertheless, El Ouahdi’s strong work ethic suggests he could successfully make the leap. Should Everton secure his services, they would gain a versatile player capable of filling positions at right-back or wing-back. This added flexibility would provide Moyes with more tactical options as he seeks to distance the club from the lower end of the table.