Why Friedkin Group are set for collision course as Zakaria El Ouahdi wanted at Everton
Everton remain in the hunt to sign Zakaria El Ouahdi, but The Friedkin Group could damage the Toffees' chances of landing the defender.
Goodison News has previously reported on Everton's interest in Genk right-back El Ouahdi.
David Moyes is in desperate need of a new right-back ahead of the 2026-27 Premier League campaign beginning in a month's time.
El Ouahdi ticks plenty of boxes, though he has never previously played outside of Belgium.
However, it may well be that the Friedkins put an end to any chance Everton have of signing the 24-year-old.
That is if a fresh update on El Ouahdi emerging from his homeland is anything to go by.
How much is needed to sign Zakaria El Ouahdi?
El Ouahdi is also capable of playing in a more advanced right-sided position, with that versatility an aspect that will excite Moyes.
According to Africa Foot, Everton are continuing to look at the Morocco international.
However, Roma have now placed El Ouahdi - described in the report as "one of the best full-backs in the Belgian league - among their top priorities.
What makes that rather awkward is that the Friedkins also own the Italian club.
It means two of the clubs from the Friedkins' stable are going after the same player.
Given Roma can offer European football, you would imagine they have the edge on Everton.
Should Everton wish to sign El Ouahdi, it is claimed it will take an offer of around €15million (£13.2m).
What do we know about El Ouahdi?
The report details how El Ouahdi has "enjoyed a remarkable rise" at Genk, where he has been a regular for the past three seasons.
The defender was previously on the books of fellow Belgian club RWD Molenbeek.
He has made 170 career appearances at club level, while also representing Morocco three times at senior level.
El Ouahdi is an attack-minded full-back and clearly someone Everton fans would love to see at Hill Dickinson Stadium.
Unfortunately, though, it may well be that the Friedkins take him to Rome instead.