Everton and Crystal Palace make enquiries for Watford winger Othmane Maamma

Everton and Crystal Palace have reportedly stepped up their interest in Watford winger Othmane Maamma, with the Championship club expected to sanction his departure during the summer transfer window.

The 20-year-old has attracted growing attention following an impressive campaign and is now emerging as one of the most sought-after young talents outside the Premier League. According to reports in France, Everton, Crystal Palace and Benfica are among the clubs closely monitoring his situation.

With Watford understood to be open to a sale, competition for his signature could intensify in the coming weeks.

French outlet L'Equipe reports that Everton and Benfica have already made detailed enquiries regarding a potential transfer.

Crystal Palace have also expressed interest in the Morocco youth international, although the South London club are currently focused on appointing a new manager before accelerating recruitment plans for the summer.

There is also reported interest from an unnamed French club, adding another layer to what is becoming an increasingly competitive race.

For Everton, the pursuit fits a strategy of identifying young players with significant development potential. Palace have followed a similar model in recent seasons, successfully recruiting emerging talents before their market value rises substantially.

Maamma's reputation rose significantly after being named the best player at the Under-20 World Cup with Morocco last year.

Despite that achievement, he was unable to secure a place in Morocco's senior World Cup squad, a disappointment that could now be offset by an important career move.

Scouts across Europe have reportedly been impressed by his combination of pace, technical quality and attacking unpredictability. His profile has been described as both explosive and creative, traits that naturally appeal to clubs looking to strengthen wide attacking positions.

Having followed several Championship prospects throughout the season, Maamma stands out as one of the division's most intriguing young attackers due to his age and long-term potential.

However, it remains too early to draw firm conclusions regarding his next destination, particularly with several clubs still assessing their summer priorities.

Crystal Palace's managerial appointment could prove important in determining whether they intensify their pursuit. Everton, meanwhile, may look to move earlier if they view Maamma as a priority target.

Benfica's presence in the race adds further competition, while the identity of the unnamed French club could become clearer as the transfer window develops. With Watford open to a sale and several clubs already making enquiries, Maamma's future is likely to become one of the more closely watched Championship transfer stories this summer.

Would Othmane Maamma be a smart signing for Everton or Crystal Palace, or should the young winger continue his development elsewhere before making the jump to the Premier League?