Zakaria El Ouahdi summer move possible as Palace interest grows

Crystal Palace’s interest in Zakaria El Ouahdi has resurfaced ahead of the summer window, with the Genk full-back increasingly viewed as a potential solution should movement occur in the Eagles’ defensive ranks.

Palace were described by Belgian outlet Het Laatste Nieuws as “seriously in the market” for the 24-year-old during the January transfer window. The London club ultimately did not formalise an offer, but the context behind that decision now sheds light on what could unfold in the coming months.

Crystal Palace’s pursuit of Zakaria El Ouahdi intensified in December after Daniel Muñoz suffered an injury that kept him sidelined for around 45 days. At that stage, reinforcement at right-back became a priority.

El Ouahdi, who had previously indicated openness to a Premier League move, was seen as a strong fit. Reports in December suggested he favoured Palace over Everton, while Belgian sources later confirmed both clubs were monitoring his situation closely.

However, Muñoz recovered quicker than expected. As a result, Palace opted against submitting a formal bid before the January window closed.

From the matches we’ve covered this season, Muñoz’s return restored stability on the right flank, reducing the urgency for immediate recruitment. That timing proved decisive.

El Ouahdi remains at Genk, but the expectation in Belgium is that this summer could represent the right moment for a step up.

Benfica were previously interested in 2024 but were unwilling to exceed €10m. VfL Wolfsburg also explored a move last summer, though personal considerations halted progress.

Now, Lyon, Marseille and PSV Eindhoven are listed among the clubs tracking him. According to HLN, interested parties will need to pay a “substantial” transfer fee, though no fixed figure has been disclosed.

Given current market inflation for attacking full-backs aged 24 with European experience, Genk are likely to seek a significantly higher amount than Benfica’s previous approach.

Daniel Muñoz has publicly expressed ambition to play for a top-level club, and that creates an element of uncertainty heading into the summer.

If offers arrive for the Colombian, Palace would need a ready-made replacement rather than a developmental project. El Ouahdi fits that profile. He is experienced in the Jupiler Pro League, comfortable in advanced positions and tactically adaptable.

However, it remains too early to conclude Palace will formalise renewed interest. Much will depend on Muñoz’s future and the club’s final league position.

The situation is likely to clarify closer to the summer window. Palace will first assess incoming interest in Muñoz before committing to a right-back signing.

If Muñoz stays, Palace may prioritise other areas of the squad. If he departs, El Ouahdi could quickly re-emerge as a primary target given previous groundwork already laid.

Genk, for their part, appear open to a sale after three seasons, suggesting negotiations would not be complicated if a suitable bid arrives.

Is Zakaria El Ouahdi the long-term successor Palace need, or will competition from Ligue 1 and Eredivisie rivals reshape the race?