Real Madrid have officially completed the signing of Moroccan prodigy Abdellah Ouazane, landing the highly-rated 16-year-old midfielder without paying a transfer fee following his departure from Ajax Amsterdam.
The move, confirmed by multiple Spanish outlets and renowned football journalist Fabrizio Romano, sees Ouazane join the Spanish giants after rejecting multiple extension offers from Ajax, including one reported to have been positioned as an ultimatum.
The teenager, who had been with the Dutch club since the age of seven, opted to continue his development in Madrid despite a personal appeal from Ajax’s first-team coach John Heitinga.
Regarded as one of the most promising young players to emerge from African football in recent years, Ouazane rose to international prominence after a stellar performance at the U17 Africa Cup of Nations.
He was named the tournament’s Most Valuable Player as Morocco lifted the title, a triumph that further cemented his status as a top-tier talent and put him on the radar of Europe’s elite clubs.
Now, Real Madrid have taken advantage of FIFA regulations which allow players under the age of 18 to move freely once their youth contracts expire, provided no professional deal has been signed.
In Ouazane’s case, this meant the Spanish club could secure his signature without incurring a transfer fee, aside from a minimal training compensation owed to Ajax.
This strategic acquisition is a continuation of Real Madrid’s long-term vision to invest in global youth talent. Ouazane is expected to sign a three-year deal in July—the maximum permitted duration for players of his age under current rules.
The midfielder will join the club’s U19 side at Valdebebas, where he will begin life in Madrid’s acclaimed youth system alongside other emerging stars such as Enzo Alves and Leo Lemaître.
Ouazane is known for his exceptional vision, precise passing, and tactical maturity beyond his years. Capable of operating in various roles across the midfield, his versatility and footballing intelligence make him a natural fit for Real Madrid’s development model.
The club views him as a long-term investment, with the potential to rise through the ranks and eventually break into the senior squad.
His integration into the Madrid setup will begin with the U19 team, though opportunities to feature for Castilla, the club’s reserve team, are likely as he acclimatises to Spanish football.
Real Madrid have established a clear pathway for young talents to progress, and Ouazane is expected to follow a similar trajectory to previous academy graduates who have gone on to make their mark in La Liga and beyond.
This transfer not only strengthens Real Madrid’s youth ranks but also highlights the increasing competition among top European clubs for elite teenage talent.
For Ouazane, it represents a major leap in his career—a chance to develop within one of the most prestigious institutions in world football.
As the summer window opens, the signing of Abdellah Ouazane stands out not for its financial impact but for the statement it makes. Real Madrid continue to build for the future, and with this latest addition, they have secured a player whose potential could shape the midfield of tomorrow.
🚨⚪️ Real Madrid agree deal to sign Moroccan talent Abdellah Ouazzine as free agent from Ajax, here we go!
16 year old talent, expected to sign in July and become part of the Castilla squad for Real academy. pic.twitter.com/zU9iSFKv0U
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 9, 2025
