He exploded in Marseille, shined in Paris and is coveted by the entire Ligue 1 – and beyond. Ilan Kebbal, 27 year old Algerian winger of Paris FC, is one of the major topics of the 2026 season. With 9 goals and 4 assists in Ligue 1 this season, he has emerged as one of the most electrifying playmakers in the league. With Paris FC setting his price between 10 and 12 million euros, the battle to sign him promises to be fierce. But there is an unexpected twist: his club does not want to sell him.
The Kebbal saga has been attracting attention from recruitment teams for weeks. In France, Stade Rennais closely follows his profile, considering him one of the best playmakers of the moment, while Monaco is also among the interested clubs. Lyon, searching for technical talent to complement their revival, has also entered the fray. Africa Foot reported Marseille leading the race to sign Ilan Kebbal this summer, with Stade Rennais lurking as well – and a significant emotional detail: Kebbal is a native of Marseille and has always shown his attachment to the club. Villarreal in Spain has also reportedly shown concrete interest and inquired about the player. Numerous contenders indicate a soaring reputation.
But Ligue 1 is not the only arena. In England, Brentford, Fulham, Everton, and Crystal Palace are also in the mix, and Saudi Arabian teams could also join the competition. Used more sparingly since Antoine Kombouaré took over at Paris FC, the Algerian winger has not been decisive since his penalty against Marseille on January 31 – a context that could accelerate his desire to leave. At maturity, Kebbal seems poised to take the next step. He has found at Paris FC what he has been looking for: continuity, stability, confidence, and an environment conducive to his development. At almost 28 years old, the time for a major move may have arrived. His versatile profile, devastating left foot, and decisive speed have impressed recruiters from the top five leagues.
Here comes the twist. Behind all these suitors, Paris FC’s response is clear: he is not for sale. The Parisian leaders, particularly sporting director Marco Neppe, are determined to keep Moustapha Mbow and Ilan Kebbal, who are followed across Europe but essential in the eyes of the Parisian decision-makers. For Marseille or Lyon, there is only one solution: offer a huge check to Paris FC. But their current financial situations make this scenario challenging. With a contract until June 2028 and expected to compete in the 2026 World Cup with Algeria this summer – a global stage that could further elevate his value – Kebbal has all the tools to be at the center of one of the hottest storylines of the season. The question is no longer about if the offers will come pouring in, but whether Antoine Arnault and Paris FC will agree to let go of their Algerian gem.
