Anderlecht have pulled off one of the summer's standout deals. The Belgian club confirmed today, Friday, the signing of impressive Moroccan striker Toufik Bentayeb from Union Touarga on a long-term contract until 2030.
Announced through the historic club's official account on X, the move sees Bentayeb, 22, embark on his third European stint after two successful spells in the French second division.
Born in Casablanca in January 2004, the striker put pen to paper on a four-season contract worth 4.5 million euros including bonuses, according to French website "Maxifoot".
Money didn't decide it. French reports confirmed Bentayeb turned down bigger financial offers, choosing Anderlecht's sporting project over the material temptations elsewhere.
Bentayeb launched his professional career with Union Touarga in 2022 before moving to France, where he played on loan for Rodez and then Troyes. His form exploded last season, 2025-2026.
Leading Troyes to promotion to the French top flight, the Moroccan was crowned the second division's top scorer. He netted 20 goals and provided 3 assists in 31 matches across all competitions, including 18 goals in the league.
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That fine form still wasn't enough to earn him a place at the 2026 World Cup with the Atlas Lions. Bentayeb settled for a spot in the extended squad and played just one international, a friendly against Burundi that ended in a 5-0 win for Morocco.