Spotted for less than £1 million, a Moroccan gem is now worth a fortune

Othmane Maamma’s price is soaring. According to the British media TeamTalk, a dozen clubs, including the giants Liverpool and Manchester United, sent their recruiters to Vicarage Road last Thursday. They witnessed Watford’s demonstration against Birmingham (3-0), coming to closely observe the 20-year-old winger who is the talk of the kingdom.

Arrived last summer from Montpellier for less than £1 million, Maamma has proven to be the deal of the century. His explosion was catalyzed by a dazzling performance at the U20 World Cup in Chile, where he led Morocco and won the tournament’s Golden Ball.

The Moroccan’s profile seduces by its rarity: capable of playing on both wings and perfectly ambidextrous, he offers valuable tactical flexibility. Having become an essential cog in Javi Gracia’s system in the race for promotion, Maamma is theoretically untransferable this winter.

However, Watford’s management remains pragmatic. While the club wishes to retain its gem to ensure its sporting ambitions, a major financial offer from a Premier League heavyweight could change the game as early as this transfer window.