Barcelona assess €10m Azzedine Ounahi option as Girona relegation opens transfer door

Azzedine Ounahi has emerged as a potential midfield target for FC Barcelona, with the Morocco international attracting attention after a convincing season at Girona despite the club’s relegation to the Segunda Division.

Barcelona are monitoring the situation as they consider ways to strengthen their midfield following Frenkie de Jong’s long-term injury, according to Mundo Deportivo. The Catalan club are understood to regard Ounahi as a player who could add creativity, technical quality and the ability to break defensive lines with the ball at his feet.

The 2026 World Cup also enhanced the Moroccan midfielder’s reputation across the European market. His performances for the Atlas Lions have helped raise his profile, making him a player of interest to several clubs before the summer transfer window closes.

Ounahi’s release clause is reportedly set at €25m. However, Girona’s relegation could have a significant impact on the cost of any potential move. Mundo Deportivo says a transfer fee of about €10m could now be possible, a figure Barcelona view as a particularly attractive opportunity.

The deal is not yet close to completion, with Barcelona first needing to conclude several departures to create greater financial flexibility. The club’s ability to strengthen their squad remains dependent on balancing their finances and reducing the number of players on their books.

Girona, meanwhile, are not expected to give up one of their most influential players cheaply. The club are aware of Ounahi’s importance and may seek to resist any offer that does not reflect his value, even after their drop into Spain’s second tier.

Barcelona also face competition for the midfielder. Ajax Amsterdam are among the other European clubs following Ounahi’s situation, while his current market value is estimated at €18m by Transfermarkt.

The Morocco international has also attracted strong interest from the Gulf. Al Ittihad have made a financially very attractive offer, as reported exclusively by Africafoot, but Ounahi has not yet accepted the proposal.

His decision to resist that approach leaves Barcelona with an opportunity to pursue the transfer. The Catalan club could therefore attempt to take advantage of Girona’s altered circumstances, although the player’s future remains unresolved and any move will depend on a number of financial and sporting factors.

For now, Ounahi remains one of the most closely watched names in Girona’s squad. His performances, international standing and potentially reduced asking price have combined to make him a possible solution for Barcelona as they look to reinforce midfield after De Jong’s injury.