Rabat – Ismael Baouf is not rushing into the first big offer that comes his way. He is being selective, and that says a lot about where his mindset is right now.
The 19-year-old Moroccan defender has reportedly turned down concrete moves from Al-Nassr and Red Star FC, making it clear that his priority is to continue climbing toward the highest level in European football.
The Al-Nassr offer was serious. It made sense financially, but Baouf still said no. At this stage of his career, a move to the Gulf doesn’t match his ambition. It’s the same story with Red Star as Ligue 2 isn’t where he sees himself progressing.
Al-Nassr’s financial package was particularly enticing. For many young players, it would have been difficult to refuse. But Baouf decided it was not the right step at this stage of his career. His focus appears to be on development, competition, and long-term growth rather than taking an early lucrative move.
Red Star was also an option, but a switch to Ligue 2 did not match the level of ambition he currently has for himself.
That says everything: the young Moroccan defender is not looking for the easiest move but for the right one.
Ismaël Baouf of SC Cambuur has been named the best player of the third period in the Keuken Kampioen Divisie. pic.twitter.com/VCmiXZXA7j
— AlmarssadPro (@ProsMarocains) March 6, 2026
A breakout season at Cambuur
Baouf’s confidence is backed by performances. He has enjoyed an impressive season with SC Cambuur, playing a major role in the club’s promotion to the Eredivisie. For a center-back, his numbers are especially eye-catching.
Six goals from defence is not common. Add to that a strong aerial presence, solid defensive work and danger from set pieces, and it is easy to understand why clubs are paying attention.
His performances have earned him a nomination for the Golden Shield award for the best player in the league.
Interest in Baouf is no longer quiet. In France, LOSC Lille and AS Saint-Étienne are said to be monitoring him closely. In the Netherlands, Ajax and PSV Eindhoven have also been linked to the young defender.
Those are all clubs known for developing talent and competing at a higher level. That seems to be exactly the type of next step Baouf wants.
This season may have accelerated things, but his rise started earlier.
Baouf was part of Morocco’s successful U20 World Cup-winning squad in 2025, which helped put him on the international radar. Since then, the attention around him has grown quickly. With more attention has come more pressure, and so far, he has responded well. His estimated market value is around €2.5 million
A lot of young players choose security early. Bigger salary, easier route, less pressure. Ismael Baouf has chosen patience instead.
He seems willing to wait for the right league, the right project and the right level. That always carries some risk, but it can also be the smartest move.
Read also: Ismael Baouf Ranked Among World’s Top 6 U20 Centre-Backs
