Cambuur eye record sale as 19‑year‑old Baouf sparks top‑flight hopes

SC Cambuur have opened talks about 19‑year‑old Moroccan defender Ismaël Baouf, whose market value is listed at three million euros, as the club seeks a transfer that would break its outgoing record. The Frisians will only cooperate on a deal that creates a new club record, noting that Oscar Sjöstrand’s previous record of two million euros for a move to Malmö FF still stands.

New Cambuur trainer Johan Plat told that Baouf is a “huge talent”, describing him as smart, strong in defence, good in the air and capable of precise passing. Plat believes the youngster will soon make the step to the top level.

Baouf is under contract with Cambuur until mid‑2028, with an option for an additional season, and he has said he would not mind staying for another year. The club’s technical manager Lars Lambooij added that while inquiries are ongoing, nothing is concrete and the player would only leave for an irresistible offer.

According to Transfermarkt, Baouf’s market value sits at three million euros, compared with the current outgoing record of two million euros. Lambooij explained that a year in the Eredivisie would be beneficial for Baouf’s development, but acknowledged that offers can sometimes be too good to refuse.

The club’s strategy therefore hinges on converting the interest into a sale that surpasses the Sjöstrand benchmark, while also respecting Baouf’s desire to remain if the right conditions arise.