FC Barcelona snatches Belgian prodigy as PSV fall short

FC Barcelona have confirmed the signing of Belgian defensive midfielder Mahdi El Maimouni, the 2009‑born prodigy who leaves Sporting Charleroi to join La Masia, while PSV were among the European clubs that missed out on the move in a battle that saw Barcelona outpace several rivals.

El Maimouni is regarded as one of the biggest Belgian talents of his generation and was named the best young talent at the Moroccan Lion d'Or Awards 2024.

Barcelona have been monitoring the Belgian‑Moroccan midfielder since early 2024 and finally secured his signature this evening.

The Catalan side praised his versatility, game insight and composure on the ball during the scouting process.

Several media outlets have drawn parallels between his playing style and that of Sergio Busquets.

PSV, Newcastle United and a number of other English clubs expressed interest, but Barcelona ultimately convinced the youngster to make the switch.

Internationally, El Maimouni can still choose between Belgium and Morocco; he has already featured for Belgian youth selections while the Moroccan federation follows his development closely.

It remains unclear which Barcelona youth team he will be placed in for the coming season.