Morocco centre‑forward Tawfik Bentayeb of Troyes is being linked with a move to German side FC Schalke 04 from Moroccan club Union Touarga, according to transfer data suggesting a 43% probability of the deal being completed.
The 24‑year‑old, valued at €8.00m on Transfermarkt, is the subject of growing speculation as Schalke look to reinforce their attack ahead of the new 2. Bundesliga campaign. The reported interest centres on a transfer pathway from Union Touarga in Morocco’s Botola Pro Inwi to the Gelsenkirchen club, even though Bentayeb is currently listed with French side ESTAC Troyes, where he wears the No 21 shirt.
Born in Casablanca on 14 January 2002, the 1.80m left‑footed striker has developed a reputation as a central attacking option capable of leading the line. His main position is centre‑forward, though he has been used across the front line, and his profile fits Schalke’s search for a mobile, penalty‑box focal point as they attempt to climb back towards the Bundesliga.
Transfer data indicates no fixed contract expiry date for Bentayeb at Troyes, leaving room for manoeuvre around his future and prompting talk that he could be prised away under favourable terms, or even move as a free agent should his contractual situation allow. The possibility of an expiring or unclarified deal has added to suggestions that Schalke could try to capitalise before his valuation rises further.
Bentayeb’s current market value of €8.00m would represent a significant outlay for a 2. Bundesliga side, but the figure underlines how highly his potential is rated after his time in both European and Moroccan football structures. Having come through in his homeland and featured for Union Touarga in the Botola Pro Inwi, he has combined domestic Moroccan experience with the tactical and physical demands of the French game at Troyes.
Recent data lists the Morocco international as part of ESTAC Troyes’ set‑up, further underlining the cross‑border nature of the rumoured move. While detailed season statistics and individual match logs are not specified in the current dataset, the inclusion of Bentayeb among Troyes’ attacking options and his assigned squad number point to a player who has been integrated into first‑team plans. Any recent performances, including his latest competitive outings for Troyes against domestic opponents in France, are seen by scouts as part of the evidence base for Schalke’s interest.
The German club’s reported pursuit comes against a backdrop of rebuilding after a difficult period, with the 2. Bundesliga side keen to add younger, resale‑value forwards rather than relying solely on experienced free agents. A move for Bentayeb would align with that strategy, particularly if his contractual status at Troyes or Union Touarga enables Schalke to negotiate below his headline €8.00m valuation.
For now, the transfer remains at rumour stage, with no official confirmation from either club and no indication that personal terms have been agreed. The 43% probability rating attached to the link suggests that discussions or preliminary interest have been noted but that a deal is far from guaranteed.
If the move does go through, it would mark a significant step in Bentayeb’s career – from Casablanca to the Botola, then Troyes and potentially the intense environment of the Veltins‑Arena. Such a transfer could define his next phase, offering a platform in German football to enhance his reputation and test his potential at a higher-profile European level.
