RC Lens' Neil El Aynaoui shakes hands with Juma Bah. (REUTERS/Manon Cruz)
Wolverhampton Wanderers ended the 2024/25 campaign on a high, but the season was far from smooth sailing.
For large stretches, Wolves looked doomed for relegation, only to be revived by the appointment of Vítor Pereira midway through the season. The experienced Portuguese coach steadied the ship and ultimately guided the club to safety with weeks to spare.
Much of that turnaround was down to the brilliant form of Matheus Cunha, who contributed heavily with both goals and assists and was undoubtedly Wolves’ talisman. However, the Brazilian has since joined Manchester United, while star left-back Rayan Aït-Nouri also departed—signing for Manchester City. Pablo Sarabia, meanwhile, has left on a free transfer to Al-Arabi.
With key players gone, a summer rebuild is firmly underway at Molineux.
The club has already made two notable additions. Jørgen Strand Larsen has joined permanently from Celta Vigo after an impressive loan spell in which he netted 14 goals, growing more influential as the season progressed. He’s been followed by winger Fermín López (also from Celta), who will offer added depth and creativity in attack.
Now, the focus appears to be on strengthening the midfield, with one of Ligue 1’s most underrated performers emerging as a key target.
Wolves Targeting RC Lens Midfielder Neil El Aynaoui
According to a new report from Foot Mercato, Wolves are one of several clubs keeping a close eye on RC Lens midfielder Neil El Aynaoui.
The 22-year-old joined Lens from Nancy in 2023 and has quickly grown into an important figure, making 56 appearances and contributing nine goals and six assists.
Eight of those goals came in 2024/25, as he established himself as a dynamic presence in the middle of the park.
Described as a player who “stands out for his technical skills, game vision, and ability to drive play forward,” El Aynaoui is attracting widespread interest.
AS Roma are already in contact with Lens over a potential move, while Premier League sides Sunderland and Leeds United are monitoring the situation. In Italy, both Juventus and AC Milan are also said to be keen.
Lens are reportedly eager to keep hold of the midfielder, but with serious interest building—and Wolves in need of reinforcements—it’s a move worth watching as the summer unfolds.
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