Barcelona set sights on Azzedine Ounahi after Frenkie de Jong injury

Barcelona are seriously considering a move for Girona midfielder Azzedine Ounahi as they look to cover for Frenkie de Jong, who is expected to miss between three and four months with a torn medial collateral ligament in his right knee.

The potential deal has emerged as an urgent priority for the Catalan club after the extent of De Jong’s injury left their midfield short of options ahead of the new season. Spanish programme El Chiringuito reports that Barcelona’s hierarchy is examining the possibility of signing the 26-year-old Morocco international.

Barcelona sporting director Deco is facing increasing pressure to complete a deal, with the club’s current midfield options limited to Pedri, Gavi and Marc Bernal. The situation has been made more difficult by the possibility of Marc Casado leaving, further reducing the choices available in the centre of the pitch.

Girona are demanding the full €25m release clause in Ounahi’s contract before allowing him to depart. The Spanish club were relegated to the second tier last season, but Ounahi remains in demand, with several European clubs showing interest.

Among those monitoring the midfielder are Ajax, managed by his former coach Michel. That competition could make negotiations more difficult for Barcelona as they seek a swift solution to De Jong’s long-term absence.

Ounahi impressed despite Girona’s relegation, scoring five goals and providing two assists in 24 La Liga appearances last season. His performances made him one of the club’s standout players during a campaign in which the team struggled to achieve positive results.

The Morocco midfielder was unable to face Barcelona in either of the two league meetings between the sides last season because of injury. His absence was significant for Michel, who had relied heavily on him in Girona’s plans.

Ounahi also has a notable connection to De Jong through international football. He was part of the Morocco side that eliminated the Netherlands on penalties in the World Cup round of 32, a match that remains De Jong’s most recent appearance for his country.

The two players offer different qualities. Ounahi is more attack-minded than De Jong and can operate in an advanced midfield position or on the wings. Barcelona nevertheless believe his versatility could make him a suitable option to help fill the gap left by the Netherlands international.

De Jong is currently with his team-mates at St George’s Park despite the injury. Barcelona must now decide whether Ounahi is the player best placed to provide cover during his lengthy recovery, while also weighing up Girona’s demand for the midfielder’s €25m clause and interest from Ajax and other European clubs.