Stade Reims' surprise signing: Youssef el Kachati targets 15 goals

Stade Reims have completed the signing of 26‑year‑old forward Youssef el Kachati on a three‑year contract, after NEC received roughly two million euros for the striker; the Dutch forward, who set a target of at least fifteen Ligue 2 goals, joins a side with promotion ambitions.

El Kachati had been a key striker for NEC before the move. He said he was surprised by the interest, noting that Eredivisie clubs had shown curiosity but he wanted to stay at NEC until the Reims offer arrived.

The French side secured the player on Thursday, signing him to a three‑year deal. The contract runs until 2027, according to the announcement.

El Kachati set a personal target of at least fifteen goals in Ligue 2. He added, “I hope to put myself in the spotlight, or we can of course also get promoted with Stade Reims. I’m really looking forward to the new season.”

NEC reportedly received roughly two million euros for the forward, a sum that also involved his former club Telstar. The fee reflects the Dutch striker’s market value after his performances in the Dutch second tier.

His former amateur side Noordwijk will collect several thousand euros from the transfer, according to the Noord‑Hollands Dagblad. El Kachati said, “It’s nice for them. I hope that Noordwijk will do something with that money for the youth.”

El Kachati will join Stade Reims ahead of the upcoming Ligue 2 campaign, aiming to help the club push for promotion. The modest financial boost for Noordwijk could support youth projects, adding a community benefit to the move.