Fenerbahçe is reportedly considering ending its association with N'Golo Kante due to his high costs, with the club's management planning to use the freed-up salary budget on a younger, long-term midfield transfer. Consequently, Neil El Aynaoui of Roma is a primary alternative for Fenerbahçe. The 24-year-old Moroccan footballer can play as a central midfielder, defensive midfielder, and as a number 8. El Aynaoui joined Roma in July 2025 and has a contract until 2030. The Moroccan international has 22 caps and 2 goals for his country, and his current market value is €23.00m, according to Transfermarkt. Other clubs have also been linked with the midfielder, including Liverpool and Manchester United.