RB Leipzig open talks for Morocco’s Strasbourg midfielder Samir El Mourabet

RB Leipzig have opened talks with Strasbourg over a possible move for Morocco international Samir El Mourabet as the Bundesliga club step up their pursuit of young talent.

According to French outlet Foot Mercato, Leipzig have identified El Mourabet and his Strasbourg team-mate Diego Moreira as priority targets before the summer transfer window closes.

The German club are understood to be impressed by the potential of both players and believe they fit a recruitment strategy built around signing young footballers who can develop into key first-team players.

Leipzig target Strasbourg duo

Negotiations between the two clubs are already under way, although no agreement has yet been reached and no transfer fee has been reported.

Both El Mourabet and Moreira are reportedly interested in the possibility of moving to Germany, giving Leipzig encouragement as discussions continue.

However, Strasbourg are in a strong position when it comes to El Mourabet after extending his contract in November 2025 until June 2030.

The long-term deal means the French club are under no immediate pressure to sell the midfielder and could demand a significant fee if Leipzig decide to make a formal offer.

Morocco international’s rapid rise

El Mourabet was born in Strasbourg and came through the club’s academy before signing his first professional contract in May 2024.

The midfielder established himself in the first team during the 2025-26 campaign, becoming a regular presence in Strasbourg’s midfield and continuing his development in Ligue 1.

He also made his mark in European competition, scoring Strasbourg’s winning goal in a 2-1 UEFA Conference League victory over Crystal Palace in November 2025.

El Mourabet struck from close range in the 77th minute as Strasbourg secured an important victory. The French side eventually reached the semi-finals of the competition before being eliminated by Rayo Vallecano.

His progress at club level has also earned him recognition with Morocco’s senior national team. Foot Mercato lists the midfielder as having nine caps for the Atlas Lions.

First move away from Strasbourg?

A transfer to Leipzig would represent a significant next step for El Mourabet, who has spent his entire development at his hometown club.

The Bundesliga has previously provided a platform for several young African players to develop at the highest level, and Leipzig’s interest could offer the Morocco international another route to establishing himself in one of Europe’s major leagues.

The German club are also pursuing Moreira, the 22-year-old Belgium international who can operate as a wing-back or in a wider role. He remains under contract with Strasbourg until 2029 and, like El Mourabet, is reportedly open to a move.

Strasbourg must now decide whether to listen to offers for two of their promising young players, with Leipzig’s pursuit potentially set to test the French club’s resolve before the transfer window closes.