Crystal Palace could turn to KRC Genk defender Zakaria El Ouahdi as a potential replacement if Daniel Munoz departs the club next year.
According to Belgian journalist Sacha Tavolieri, the Eagles are monitoring the 23 year old Moroccan international as they consider options at right back amid uncertainty over Munoz’s long term future. Palace are keen to strengthen their defence and El Ouahdi has emerged as a leading candidate.
The Antwerp born full back has already attracted interest from elsewhere in the Premier League. Everton are understood to have made an approach, but El Ouahdi has turned down the Merseyside club as he is keen on joining a side competing in the upper half of the table. That stance has placed Crystal Palace in a strong position to secure his signature.
El Ouahdi has developed into one of the standout young players in the Belgian top flight since joining Genk from RWDM Brussels in September 2023. After progressing through a number of Belgian academies, including Beerschot, Zulte Waregem and Berchem Sport, he has flourished at Genk and become a key figure in their squad.
So far, the 23 year old has made close to 100 appearances for the club, contributing 12 goals and eight assists from a wide defensive role. His performances have drawn attention from several clubs, with Palace and Everton both tracking his progress.
Palace’s interest makes sense given the questions surrounding Munoz’s future, while Everton are also short of reliable options at right back. Seamus Coleman is nearing the end of his career and Nathan Patterson has struggled with injuries, but El Ouahdi appears unconvinced by a move to Goodison Park.
With Palace leading the chase and offering a more attractive sporting project, the South London side look well placed as the race for El Ouahdi’s signature begins to take shape.