Milan Targets Zakaria El Ouahdi for Right-Back Role

Milan have turned their attention to Morocco international Zakaria El Ouahdi as they hunt for a new right-back this summer.

Italian transfer specialist Gianluca Di Marzio reports that the Rossoneri are closely studying a move for the Genk defender, identified as a leading option to replace Atekami, who is nearing a switch to Olympique Lyon.

Born in 2001, El Ouahdi has already built a solid reputation in Belgium and beyond. PSV Eindhoven had previously been strongly linked with the full-back, with several reports highlighting coach Peter Bosz’s push to bring him to the Eredivisie in this window.

Genk, though, are not in the mood to bargain. The Belgian club value the Moroccan between 13 and 15 million euros and are standing firm on that price, showing no intention so far of easing their stance or rushing a sale.

Milan have not yet submitted an official offer, but the interest is described as concrete. If the deal progresses, El Ouahdi could become the second major Genk talent to step up to a European heavyweight in this market, following Konstantinos Karetsas’ move to Borussia Dortmund for around 35 million euros.

Genk have drawn their line. Now it is up to Milan to decide whether they are ready to cross it.