In an unexpected twist, Roma have reportedly agreed to transfer Neil El Aynaoui to RB Leipzig for a potential €29m package, replacing him with Atalanta icon Marten de Roon.

Earlier today, rumors circulated that the Giallorossi were planning significant changes in their midfield, suggesting El Aynaoui’s departure was imminent.

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Roma release El Aynaoui and bring in De Roon

ROME, ITALY – APRIL 18: Ederson of Atalanta challenges Neil El Aynaoui of AS Roma during the Serie A match between AS Roma and Atalanta BC at Stadio Olimpico on April 18, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)

Despite interest from several Premier League clubs, reports suggest the decision has been made for him to join the Bundesliga side RB Leipzig.

Sky Sport Italia report that the agreement consists of a €4m loan fee and an option to buy for an additional €25m at the end of the season, which may become obligatory based on specific conditions.

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The 25-year-old Morocco international joined from RC Lens last year for €23.5m plus add-ons but struggled to find consistent playing time under Gian Piero Gasperini.

ROME, ITALY – DECEMBER 02: Marten de Roon of Atalanta scores his team’s first goal during the Serie A match between AS Roma and Atalanta at Stadio Olimpico on December 02, 2024 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)

While El Aynaoui’s exit does not come as a complete surprise, the significant twist is that his replacement will be De Roon.

The 35-year-old midfielder, who is in the final year of his contract with Atalanta, is reportedly set to leave for a nominal fee that is entirely performance-based.

BERGAMO, ITALY – MARCH 22: Marten de Roon of Atalanta celebrates becoming the clubs record appearance holder with family members in front of the fans after the Serie A match between Atalanta BC and Hellas Verona FC at Gewiss Stadium on March 22, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Scaccianoce/Getty Images)

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This transfer appears to be a gentleman’s agreement between the clubs, allowing De Roon to participate in the Champions League while reuniting with his former coach Gasperini at Roma.

The Dutch midfielder enjoyed a successful stint at Atalanta, playing a crucial role in the club’s success over nine years. He departs after a record 445 appearances, with 23 goals and 32 assists to his name.

In an unexpected twist, Roma have reportedly agreed to hand Neil El Aynaoui to RB Leipzig for a potential €29m package, and replace him with Atalanta icon Marten de Roon.

There had been rumours earlier today that the Giallorossi were preparing some big changes in the middle of the park, that could well see El Aynaoui leave.

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Roma release El Aynaoui and bring in De Roon

ROME, ITALY – APRIL 18: Ederson of Atalanta challenges Neil El Aynaoui of AS Roma during the Serie A match between AS Roma and Atalanta BC at Stadio Olimpico on April 18, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)

Although there was also interest from some Premier League sides, it would seem as if the decision has been made for him to go to the Bundesliga for RB Leipzig.

Sky Sport Italia report the agreement is for a loan at €4m and option to buy at the end of the season for another €25m, which can become an obligation if certain conditions are met.

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The 25-year-old Morocco international was only purchased last year from RC Lens for €23.5m plus add-ons, but never really became a regular under Gian Piero Gasperini.

ROME, ITALY – DECEMBER 02: Marten de Roon of Atalanta scores his team’s first goal during the Serie A match between AS Roma and Atalanta at Stadio Olimpico on December 02, 2024 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)

While El Aynaoui’s departure is not entirely a surprise, the big twist here is that his replacement will be De Roon.

The 35-year-old was in the last year of his contract with Atalanta, so is reportedly going to be allowed to leave for a nominal fee, linked entirely to performance-related bonuses.

BERGAMO, ITALY – MARCH 22: Marten de Roon of Atalanta celebrates becoming the clubs record appearance holder with family members in front of the fans after the Serie A match between Atalanta BC and Hellas Verona FC at Gewiss Stadium on March 22, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Scaccianoce/Getty Images)

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This is depicted as a gentleman’s agreement between the clubs, allowing De Roon to play in the Champions League and be reunited with his old coach Gasperini at Roma.

The Dutchman truly was the heart and soul of that Atalanta side that Gasperini forged over nine years, first coming to the club in 2015-16, then returning in 2017 after a very brief experience with Middlesbrough.

He leaves after a record 445 appearances for the club, where he scored 23 goals and provided 32 assists.