Newcastle move to sign Ait Boudlal in January for €40 million

Newcastle United are preparing to make a strong move in the upcoming winter transfer market, targeting Moroccan defender Abdelhamid Ait Boudlal, a player for Rennes, in a deal that could be worth up to €40 million, according to the website 'Le Transfer'.

The 20-year-old Moroccan defender has become the focus of interest for several European clubs after impressing with his defensive abilities. Among those interested in his services are Borussia Dortmund, as well as English clubs Crystal Palace, Brentford, and Everton.

Newcastle appear most ready to move for Abdelhamid Ait Boudlal as they aim to secure the deal during the winter transfer window, planning to make a significant financial offer to convince Rennes to part with the Moroccan player.

Abdelhamid Ait Boudlal joined Rennes in July 2024, coming from Amiens, and signed a contract that runs until June 2028, before his development and impressive performances opened the door to interest from clubs looking to strengthen their defenses with young players capable of developing and competing at the highest levels.

If the deal is completed for €40 million, the Moroccan defender's transfer will become Rennes' fourth largest sale in history, behind Jérémy Doku, who moved for €60 million, Jérémy Giraud, who transferred for €63.6 million, and Désiré Doué for €50 million.

Football circles are watching closely what Newcastle's movements will yield in the upcoming period, amid expected competition to sign Abdelhamid Ait Boudlal, who could become one of the most prominent Moroccan names in the winter transfer market.