Twente eyes Anderlecht defender amid Lyon competition

FC Twente has turned its attention to Ali Maamar, the 21‑year‑old right‑back who currently plays for Anderlecht, according to a report posted today. Maamar holds both Belgian and Moroccan passports, making him eligible for either national side.

The rumor was spread by the X‑account Actu Foot Maroc, a source that frequently publishes news about Moroccan players, and it was shared worldwide on Sunday. The wing‑back recently made his debut for the Morocco senior team.

In the build‑up to the World Cup, Morocco coach Mohamed Ouahbi added Maamar to the provisional squad, although the player ultimately did not make the final list. He is projected to become a World Cup U‑20 champion with Morocco in 2025 under Ouahbi’s guidance.

Twente’s interest follows Maamar’s 18 appearances for Anderlecht last season in the Jupiler Pro League. Olympique Lyon is also reported to be monitoring the defender.

The young defender’s contract with Anderlecht runs until mid‑2028 in Brussels. At the same time, Twente defender Bart van Rooij is targeting a transfer this summer after a near move to Wolverhampton Wanderers last year.

Technical director Erik ten Hag may view Maamar as a potential replacement for van Rooij in the Twente back line.