The father of AS Roma midfielder Neil El Aynaoui has delivered a startling admission about his son's desire to join Barcelona, telling Football Italia that the 24-year-old "would be the happiest person in the world" if a move to the Catalan giants came to fruition.
The comments, made by Younes El Aynaoui, will only intensify speculation surrounding the Moroccan international's future, with the Blaugrana reported to be monitoring his situation closely as they seek to bolster their midfield options ahead of the 2026-27 campaign.
The Father's Revelation
Younes El Aynaoui was unequivocal in his assessment of his son's ambitions, revealing that a switch to La Liga would represent a dream come true for the family.
"Neil would be the happiest person in the world if he joins Barcelona. It has always been his dream to play for such a historic club. We are talking about one of the biggest teams in football, and it would be an incredible step for his career,"
the father stated, though he was quick to stress that no formal agreement is in place and that his son remains focused on his duties at the Stadio Olimpico.
Who Is Neil El Aynaoui?
A product of the Giallorossi academy, El Aynaoui has been a fixture in the club's first-team setup since making his breakthrough in 2023. The central midfielder is known for his technical ability, composure on the ball, and defensive awareness – traits that align with the profile of player Barcelona typically target. He has earned comparisons to former Blaugrana stars for his playing style, which adds an intriguing layer to the speculation.
Despite being just 24, the Moroccan has already gained valuable experience in Serie A, making 37 appearances across all competitions last season and chipping in with four goals. His contract at Roma runs until 2028, which would necessitate a substantial fee to prise him away.
Barcelona's Midfield Hunt
Barcelona's interest in El Aynaoui is understood to be part of a broader strategy to inject fresh legs into a midfield that has relied heavily on veterans in recent years. While the emergence of La Masia graduates has eased some concerns, sporting director Deco is believed to be scouring the market for players who can operate in both deep-lying and box-to-box roles.
El Aynaoui’s versatility and age profile make him an attractive option, though any deal would hinge on Barcelona's financial situation and their ability to offload existing squad members first.
The Roma Perspective
Roma are unlikely to welcome the public speculation, with head coach Daniele De Rossi reportedly viewing El Aynaoui as a key part of the project as the club aims to return to the Champions League. The Italian side have a reputation for driving a hard bargain for their academy products, and any suitor would need to meet a valuation believed to be in the region of €35 million.
Key Takeaways
- Neil El Aynaoui's father says his son would be "the happiest person in the world" to join Barcelona.
- The 24-year-old Moroccan international has impressed at Roma with his technical and defensive qualities.
- Barcelona are monitoring the midfielder as part of a planned squad refresh, but finances remain a hurdle.
- Roma value El Aynaoui highly and are reluctant to lose a homegrown talent given his contract until 2028.
- No formal negotiations are underway, but the player's camp are keen for talks to progress.
Quick Facts
Player: Neil El Aynaoui
Age: 24
Position: Central midfielder
Current Club: AS Roma
Contract Expiry: June 2028
National Team: Morocco
2025-26 Appearances: 37 (all competitions)
Transfer Valuation: Approx. €35 million
Dream Destination: Barcelona
