Espanyol Barcelona submit official bid for Moroccan international Azzedine Ounahi as transfer battle with Girona intensifies

Espanyol Barcelona have made a formal offer to Olympique de Marseille for Moroccan international Azzedine Ounahi, adding a new twist to the midfielder’s uncertain future.

Until recently, Girona FC appeared in pole position with a €5m package, including performance-related bonuses, aimed at luring the 24-year-old to La Liga.

However, Espanyol’s entry into negotiations has reopened the race and increased pressure on Marseille’s management to take a definitive stance.

Ounahi, who spent last season on loan at Panathinaikos, has been clear about his ambition.

Spain or nothing, the midfielder reportedly told those close to him, underlining his desire to make La Liga his next destination.

He views the Spanish league as the perfect platform to showcase his technical ability and attacking flair.

Panathinaikos had previously sought to retain the player on a permanent deal, offering Marseille €10m earlier this summer.

Despite the financial appeal of the Greek side’s bid, Ounahi was unwilling to return, preferring to keep his focus on Spain.

Interest has also been registered from Turkey, Russia and the United Kingdom, but these options remain secondary for the Moroccan international.

Espanyol’s official approach comes at a time when Marseille are weighing their options.

The French club, who face Paris FC in their second Ligue 1 fixture of the season, are keen to resolve Ounahi’s future quickly to avoid distractions as the campaign gains momentum.

Behind the scenes, the situation has been complicated further by tensions between Ounahi and his former representative, Mehdi Benatia.

A contractual clause entitling Benatia to a percentage of any future transfer continues to hang over negotiations, adding another layer of sensitivity to the process.

Ounahi’s reputation has grown significantly since his emergence at Angers, with his performances for Morocco on the international stage only increasing his value.

The simultaneous pursuit of the player by both Girona and Espanyol underlines his standing in Catalonia, where his skillset is seen as ideally suited to the technical demands of Spanish football.

For Marseille, the decision now lies between securing a favourable financial deal and managing the player’s desire to move on.

Espanyol’s intervention has ensured that the battle for Ounahi remains wide open, with both Catalan clubs determined to bring him to La Liga before the transfer window closes.