Moroccan starlet Moncef Zekri is on the verge of signing his first professional contract with Ajax Amsterdam.
The highly rated defender has caught the eye of European scouts during Morocco’s historic triumph at the U17 Africa Cup of Nations, where the Atlas Cubs clinched their first title after beating Mali on penalties.
The 16-year-old played every minute of the tournament and was named in CAF’s Team of the Tournament.
According to Dutch media outlet Voetbal International, Zekri has opted for Ajax despite serious interest from Bayer Leverkusen and the chance to stay with his current club KV Mechelen.
Multiple reports suggest that Zekri agreed to join the Dutch giants due to their reputation for nurturing young talent, and their Moroccan presence tilted the decision.
Zekri is expected to join Ajax on a free transfer as he is not currently under a professional contract.
Morocco’s title run put the spotlight on several young talents, five of whom, including Zekri, were named in the tournament’s Best XI.
The final, played against Mali, ended goalless in regular time, before Morocco held their nerve to win 4-2 on penalties.
