Brentford are reportedly among the clubs interested in Schalke midfielder Soufiane El-Faouzi, with Sky Deutschland valuing him at around €12million.
Brentford are reportedly interested in Schalke midfielder Soufiane El-Faouzi as they assess potential summer additions.
According to Sky Deutschland, Brentford are among the clubs showing concrete interest in the 23-year-old, who has impressed during Schalke’s promotion-winning season. Bologna, Sunderland and Celtic are also credited with interest, while Stade Rennes are said to admire the midfielder but are not expected to be his next destination.
Sky Deutschland reports that Schalke would like to keep El-Faouzi after securing their return to the Bundesliga, with the player also understood to feel settled in Gelsenkirchen. The report adds that there have not yet been concrete talks with other clubs, with El-Faouzi’s focus having been on helping Schalke complete their promotion push.
The midfielder is valued at around €12million, a figure that would make him a significant but realistic target for clubs looking to add energy and depth in central areas. From Brentford’s perspective, the profile is understandable. El-Faouzi is at an age where there is still room for development, but he has already played an important role in a high-pressure season at Schalke.
That is the type of space Brentford have often operated in well. The club have built a reputation for identifying players before they reach their peak, giving them a clear role and helping them develop into Premier League-level performers. El-Faouzi would still have to make a major step if he moved to England, but Brentford’s recent record with developing and improving players makes the link a logical one.
Midfield could be an area Brentford look to strengthen this summer. Keith Andrews’ side have relied on a combination of experience and athleticism in the centre of the pitch, with Mathias Jensen, Vitaly Janelt and Jordan Henderson all important to the squad. But injuries have also tested Brentford’s depth during the campaign, making another central option a logical part of their recruitment planning.
There is no suggestion at this stage that a move is advanced. Sky Deutschland’s reporting points to interest rather than negotiations, and Schalke’s promotion strengthens their position if they decide to resist offers. Bundesliga football gives the German club a clearer sporting argument for keeping one of its key midfielders.
For Brentford, the link still fits the wider approach they have taken in the market. The club has regularly sought players who can develop within its structure while also offering immediate physical and tactical qualities. El-Faouzi’s reported availability at around €12million is likely to attract competition, but it places him in a bracket Brentford have explored before when they believe a player can adapt to the Premier League.