Interest in Moroccan right-back Zakaria El Ouahdi has intensified as the 2026 summer transfer window approaches, with PSV Eindhoven reportedly tracking the 24-year-old star of KRC Genk closely as a potential successor to Sergiño Dest, whose future at the club remains uncertain.
Sources in the Netherlands say PSV’s technical director Earnest Stewart was present in Belgium last weekend specifically to scout El Ouahdi in action.
According to TransferFeed and multiple European reports, PSV isn’t The only club with El Ouahdi on their radar, Olympique de Marseille, Olympique Lyonnais, Crystal Palace, and Everton have also been linked with interest in the Moroccan full-back.
Genk has valued the defender at around €15 million, with estimates for a summer transfer fee generally in the €10 million–€15 million range as clubs prepare offers.
Standout 2025-26 season for El Ouahdi
This season, El Ouahdi has impressed in the Jupiler Pro League and UEFA Europa League with strong attacking numbers, including goals and assists, and dynamic performances from the right flank. While detailed statistics vary by source, his contributions this campaign have confirmed him as one of Genk’s most influential players.
Reports are particularly impressed by his versatility and offensive support from deep, plus a recent decisive performance in the Europa League where he scored in an important match against Dinamo Zagreb, raised his stock among scouts.
PSV’s interest in El Ouahdi is driven in part by the potential departure of Dest, with the Dutch club keen to reinforce the right-back position with a younger option capable of contributing both defensively and offensively.
El Ouahdi’s contract with Genk runs until 2028, giving his current club leverage in negotiations but also indicating long-term planning for both player and suitors.
