Milan track Morocco full-back Zakaria El Ouahdi as defensive rebuild gathers pace

AC Milan are seriously considering a move for Genk and Morocco right-back Zakaria El Ouahdi as they begin reshaping their squad under new manager Ruben Amorim.

The Italian club are looking to build a more balanced and cohesive team, with strengthening the right side of their defence emerging as one of their priorities. El Ouahdi has now become a leading option for that position after impressing with his consistency and attacking contribution in Belgium.

According to Italian journalist Manuel Baiocchini, Milan are preparing for the possible departure of defender Zachary Athekame, who is being linked with a move to Olympique Lyonnais. While the Serie A club are examining several candidates to replace him, El Ouahdi is understood to have attracted particular admiration from Milan’s recruitment team.

The 23-year-old full-back is under contract with Genk until June 2028. His performances have helped increase his estimated market value, which is currently around 17m euros, according to Transfermarkt.

El Ouahdi enjoyed an outstanding individual campaign with the Belgian club last season. He made 43 appearances in all competitions, scoring 12 goals and providing six assists.

Those figures stand out for a player whose primary role is at full-back and underline the attacking threat he can offer from the right flank. They also help explain why several major European clubs have shown interest in securing his services.

Milan’s interest comes as the club attempt to lay the foundations for a new-look squad under Amorim. The Italian side are assessing their options in defence, with the potential loss of Athekame increasing the need to identify a reliable replacement.

El Ouahdi’s ability to contribute at both ends of the pitch makes him an attractive candidate. His performances for Genk have combined defensive responsibility with a significant output in front of goal, while his long-term contract means any attempt to sign him would involve negotiations with the Belgian club.

For now, Milan are continuing to evaluate a number of possibilities for the position, but El Ouahdi has emerged as a particularly appealing target. His form for Genk and his production during the previous season have placed him firmly among the players being considered as the Italian club plan their next phase.