VfB Stuttgart Enters Race for KRC Genk Defender Zakaria El Ouahdi

According to a report from HLN, VfB Stuttgart has entered the competition to acquire KRC Genk defender Zakaria El Ouahdi, 24.

The Antwerp native has drawn interest from Crystal Palace and Everton, alongside significant attention from Benfica, Wolfsburg, and Stade Rennes during the summer transfer window. El Ouahdi has become an integral part of the Genk lineup, having started all 14 of his Jupiler Pro League matches this season, with the exception of a six-game stretch due to a shoulder injury sustained between October and November.

HLN indicates that El Ouahdi may be receptive to a transfer after spending two-and-a-half seasons with Genk, although there are currently no established negotiations in progress.

As VfB Stuttgart prepares for the 2026/27 season, they face some uncertainties: Pascal Stenzel’s contract is set to expire this summer, and Leonidas Stergiou has yet to make an appearance this season. While Lorenz Assignon and Josha Vagnoman have been consistent performers under Sebastian Hoeneß, the team is still lacking depth in the full-back positions.