Moroccan teen Youssef Lekhedim set to join Deportivo Alavés in pursuit of first-team action

Promising Moroccan midfielder Youssef Lekhedim is reportedly on the brink of sealing a move to Spanish side Deportivo Alavés as he looks to accelerate his development through regular first-team football.

The 19-year-old has reached an agreement with Alavés after opting to leave Madrid.

The switch is seen as a strategic step in Lekhedim’s career, mirroring the path of fellow Moroccan star Achraf Hakimi, who left Real Madrid to shine at Borussia Dortmund.

Lekhedim featured in 49 matches across all competitions last season, contributing two goals and six assists — a solid return for the young talent.

Transfer expert Matteo Moretto reports that the move will see Lekhedim pen a four-year deal with the La Liga outfit.

The move could also enhance Lekhedim’s prospects of breaking into the Moroccan national team, as head coach Walid Regragui continues to monitor emerging talents ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico.