Zakaria El Ouahdi emerges as transfer target after standout Genk season

Zakaria El Ouahdi is expected to attract significant interest in the upcoming transfer window after an impressive season with KRC Genk, with PSV Eindhoven among the sides monitoring the right-back closely.

Reports from Voetbal International suggest that PSV are considering El Ouahdi as a potential replacement for Sergiño Dest, whose future at the Dutch club is increasingly uncertain.

The situation has prompted PSV to assess options at right-back ahead of possible changes to their defensive line.

Interest from Eindhoven is not new. Earlier reporting by Eindhovens Dagblad indicated that PSV had already been tracking the Moroccan defender since February.

However, Voetbal International notes that competition for his signature could extend beyond the Eredivisie club, with other more high-profile teams also believed to be monitoring his progress.

“El Ouahdi remains among the candidates to succeed Dest at the Philips Stadium,” the report states, adding that his performances in the Belgian top flight have strengthened his profile significantly this season.

It also warns that “we cannot rule out that even more prestigious clubs may be interested in this very talented 24-year-old Moroccan.”

The full-back has enjoyed a standout campaign with Genk, contributing both defensively and offensively. Across all competitions, he has made 41 appearances, scoring 12 goals and registering five assists — an unusually high attacking return for a player in his position.

El Ouahdi remains under contract with Genk until the summer of 2028, placing the Belgian club in a strong negotiating position.

His current market valuation is estimated at around €15 million, according to Transfermarkt.

As clubs begin to plan for next season, El Ouahdi’s combination of defensive reliability and attacking output is expected to make him one of the more sought-after full-backs in the market.

Genk are likely to face mounting pressure if interest continues to grow in the weeks ahead.