Anderlecht beat rivals to sign Morocco striker Tawfik Bentayeb on four-year deal

Anderlecht have completed the signing of Morocco striker Tawfik Bentayeb from Union Touarga, with the 24-year-old agreeing a contract running for the next four seasons.

The Belgian club confirmed the move on Friday, following a report by Africafoot that the deal was close to completion. The transfer is understood to be worth €4.5m, including bonuses.

Bentayeb arrives at Anderlecht after a prolific spell in France with ESTAC Troyes. During his loan in Ligue 2, he scored 18 goals to finish as the division’s top scorer.

His performances attracted interest from a number of clubs, but Bentayeb ultimately chose Anderlecht as the next stage of his development. He is reported to have turned down more lucrative offers in favour of a sporting project that he believes can help him take another step forward in his career.

“His choice reflects a desire to progress at the highest level,” according to the terms of the move outlined in the report, with Anderlecht regarded as the club offering the clearest route for his continued development.

Bentayeb is currently valued at €8m by Transfermarkt. He is also believed to have ambitions of helping Anderlecht achieve their targets while earning recognition from the Morocco national team.

The move to Belgium is therefore a significant moment in his attempt to establish himself at the top level of European football. His goalscoring record at Troyes made him one of the most sought-after forwards in Ligue 2, and Anderlecht have secured his services after he weighed up several alternatives.

The Belgian side are preparing for the second leg of their Europa League play-off against Kairat, which they will play shortly. Betting company 1xbet listed Anderlecht as favourites for the match, offering odds of 1.34 for a home win, 4.40 for a draw and 8.10 for a Kairat victory.

Bentayeb’s arrival gives Anderlecht an additional attacking option as they pursue their objectives domestically and in Europe. His four-year agreement underlines the club’s commitment to the Moroccan forward and their belief that he can develop further after his outstanding campaign in Ligue 2.

The striker’s immediate challenge will be to adapt to Belgian football and compete for a place in an Anderlecht side involved in the Europa League play-off. His move also provides the next opportunity to build on the 18-goal season that secured his status as Ligue 2’s leading scorer.