Real Madrid are in advanced negotiations to sign highly-rated Moroccan teenager Abdellah Ouazane from Ajax Amsterdam, as the Spanish giants accelerate efforts to secure one of Africa’s brightest young footballing prospects.
The 16-year-old attacking midfielder, who was born in Amsterdam, rose to international prominence after a standout performance at the 2023 U17 Africa Cup of Nations, where he played a pivotal role in Morocco’s title-winning campaign.
His composure, versatility, and technical finesse earned him the tournament’s Most Valuable Player award, putting Europe’s top clubs on alert.
According to reports from Spanish outlet Relevo, Real Madrid have held positive discussions with Ajax and Ouazane’s representatives.
Sources close to the deal indicate that negotiations are progressing smoothly, and optimism is growing within the Madrid camp that an agreement could be finalized in the coming weeks.
Transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano has also confirmed that talks are underway and that Real Madrid are firmly interested in securing Ouazane’s signature.
The player, for his part, is said to be enthusiastic about the potential move to the Spanish capital, where he would initially be integrated into the club’s youth structure before targeting a spot in the senior squad.
Ouazane, who is capable of playing both in advanced midfield roles and deeper in central areas, is widely regarded as one of the finest talents to emerge from Ajax’s famed academy in recent years.
Known for his spatial awareness, tight control in crowded areas, and mature decision-making, he has drawn comparisons to some of the elite playmakers developed in the Dutch system.
His rapid rise through Ajax’s youth ranks, coupled with his dominant performances on the international youth stage, has sparked interest from multiple European heavyweights.
Paris Saint-Germain and FC Barcelona had reportedly monitored the player closely, but Real Madrid now appear to have surged ahead in the race for his signature.
The move aligns with Real Madrid’s long-term vision under club president Florentino Pérez, who has prioritized the recruitment of elite young talent as part of the club’s rebuilding strategy.
In recent transfer windows, the Spanish champions have secured several high-potential players, including Dean Huijsen and Trent Alexander-Arnold, as they look to solidify a new generation of stars.
Real Madrid’s academy, commonly referred to as “La Fábrica,” has regained strategic importance in recent years, with the club placing renewed emphasis on developing and nurturing young talent capable of eventually contributing to the first team. The prospective addition of Ouazane is seen as a continuation of this philosophy.
Should the deal go through, the Moroccan prodigy would likely begin his journey in Madrid with the club’s Castilla or Juvenil sides.
His skill set, marked by agility, creativity, and footballing intelligence, fits seamlessly with the tactical identity and technical standards that Real Madrid seek in their developmental structure.
As talks continue, both parties are reportedly hopeful that terms will be agreed upon soon, setting the stage for another promising young talent to make his way to the Bernabéu.
🚨⚪️ Real Madrid are showing interest in Moroccan 16 year old talent Azzedine Ouazane from Ajax.
Initial talks to make approach and explore deal have taken place, as @Rodra10_97 reports.
Nothing agreed yet but one of the talents on shortlist for long term. pic.twitter.com/Gq3hGYfg3v
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 3, 2025