Liverpool and Manchester United have both made enquiries over Roma and Morocco midfielder Nail Ainaoui following his standout performances at the 2026 World Cup, according to a report in Italy.
The Premier League pair are said to be competing with Turkish side Fenerbahce for the 25-year-old, whose form for club and country has drawn interest from several European teams in recent days.
Football Italia reports that Liverpool, Manchester United and Fenerbahce have all contacted Roma to ask about the possibility of signing Ainaoui during the current summer transfer window.
Roma, who signed the midfielder from Lens last summer for €23.5m plus add-ons and a sell-on percentage for the French club, are not expected to consider offers below €35m to €40m.
World Cup impact
Ainaoui was one of the key figures in Morocco’s impressive run at the 2026 World Cup, helping the Atlas Lions reach the quarter-finals before losing 2-0 to France.
Born and raised in France, Ainaoui opted to represent Morocco at international level and has made 22 appearances for the North African nation.
His displays at the tournament have reportedly shifted attention towards him, after initial scouting focus had been directed at his Roma team-mate Manu Kone, who also impressed with France.
Contract and valuation
Roma’s investment in Ainaoui last summer reflected their belief in his long-term value, with the fee to Lens structured at €23.5m plus performance-related variables and a future sell-on clause for the French side.
The Italian club are now understood to be in a strong negotiating position and, according to the same report, would only entertain a sale if a substantial bid in the €35m-€40m range is made.
Summer window interest
With Liverpool and Manchester United both looking to strengthen their midfields, and Fenerbahce seeking to add a high-profile signing, Ainaoui’s situation is expected to be one to watch as the summer window progresses.
No formal offers have been reported, but the contacts made so far underline the increased demand for the Morocco international after his World Cup campaign and first season with Roma.
