Watford place €10m price tag on Morocco star Imran Louza amid transfer battle

Morocco midfielder Imran Louza has become one of the most sought-after African players in the Championship, with Watford placing a reported €10 million valuation on the 27-year-old amid growing interest from clubs across Europe and the Gulf.

Teams from England, France, the Netherlands, Italy, Saudi Arabia and Qatar are all said to be monitoring the Atlas Lions international ahead of the 2026-27 season, following another impressive campaign in English football.

Despite the mounting speculation, Watford are reluctant to lose one of their most influential players and are determined to keep him at the centre of their plans for the upcoming season.

Premier League clubs show interest

Interest from the Premier League has gathered pace in recent weeks, with Crystal Palace among the clubs to have enquired about the midfielder’s availability.

Everton are also reportedly tracking Louza closely and have sent scouts to watch his performances as they assess options to strengthen their midfield department.

The Moroccan international’s vision, passing ability and control in possession have made him an attractive target for clubs seeking an experienced player capable of dictating the tempo of matches.

Ligue 1 return remains possible

A return to France could also be on the cards for Louza, who began his professional career in Ligue 1.

Newly promoted Paris FC are believed to have identified the Watford midfielder as one of their priority signings, with reports suggesting talks over personal terms have already advanced.

The Paris-based club sees Louza’s experience and leadership as valuable assets as it prepares for its first season back in the French top flight.

Fellow Ligue 1 side Nice are also keeping a close eye on developments and could yet enter the race before the transfer window closes.

Ajax and Como monitoring situation

Dutch giants Ajax are another club linked with the Moroccan midfielder as they continue rebuilding their squad.

The Eredivisie side is reportedly attracted by Louza’s technical qualities and his suitability for a possession-based system, although no official offer has been made.

In Italy, Serie A club Como are also considering a move as they look to strengthen their midfield with proven experience following their recent rise.

Meanwhile, interest from Saudi Arabia and Qatar provides another potential option should negotiations with European clubs fail to progress.

Watford determined to keep key midfielder

Although Louza’s future remains uncertain, Watford are not actively looking to sell one of their most important players.

Club officials reportedly view the transfer speculation as part of the normal summer market and believe the midfielder remains crucial to their ambitions for the new campaign.

By valuing Louza at around €10 million, the Championship side has sent a clear message that any club hoping to sign the Moroccan will have to make a substantial offer.

Important figure for Morocco

Louza has become an important member of the Morocco squad since committing his international future to the Atlas Lions.

He played a significant role during Morocco’s historic run to the semi-finals of the 2022 FIFA World Cup before injuries disrupted his progress with the national team.

Now back to full fitness, the midfielder has re-established himself as one of Morocco’s most technically gifted players, admired for his composure, intelligent distribution and versatility in midfield.

With several weeks left in the transfer window, competition for Louza’s signature could intensify, leaving Watford facing difficult decisions if formal bids arrive.