Barcelona weigh move for Morocco’s Azzedine Ounahi after De Jong setback

Barcelona are reportedly considering a move for Morocco midfielder Azzedine Ounahi as the Spanish champions search for reinforcements following Frenkie de Jong’s serious knee injury.

Spanish media reports suggest the Catalan giants are monitoring the 26-year-old, with Girona believed to be willing to discuss a transfer worth around $11.5 million, although no official negotiations have taken place.

Any potential deal is likely to depend on Barcelona raising funds through player sales as coach Hansi Flick looks to strengthen his midfield options ahead of the new season.

De Jong injury forces Barcelona rethink

Barcelona’s interest in Ounahi comes after the club confirmed that De Jong suffered a tear to the medial collateral ligament in his right knee during the 2026 World Cup.

The Dutch midfielder sustained the injury on July 23, with the club opting for conservative treatment rather than immediate surgery. Barcelona have yet to provide a timeline for his return, raising uncertainty over his availability for the start of the campaign.

The injury has left Flick facing an important decision in midfield, prompting reports that the club could enter the market before the transfer window closes.

Ounahi’s stock continues to rise

Ounahi joined Girona permanently from Olympique de Marseille in August 2025, signing a five-year contract that runs until June 2030 after the Spanish club reportedly paid around $6.9 million for his services.

Although some reports claim the Moroccan international has a release clause worth around $28.7 million, Barcelona are said to believe a lower fee could be negotiated.

Girona’s relegation from La Liga has fuelled speculation that Ounahi could seek a move rather than spend next season in Spain’s second tier.

The midfielder enjoyed an impressive 2025-26 campaign, contributing five goals and three assists before representing Morocco at the World Cup.

Barcelona may need player sale

While Ounahi is not considered a direct replacement for De Jong, his ability to progress the ball, operate in tight spaces and influence attacking play makes him an attractive option for Barcelona.

The club’s ability to complete a deal could hinge on the future of academy graduate Marc Casadó, who has reportedly attracted interest from clubs across Europe and Saudi Arabia.

Barcelona are believed to be open to offers in the region of $46 million for the defensive midfielder, a sale that would ease financial pressure and create room in the squad.

Ajax have also been linked with Ounahi, meaning Barcelona could face competition should their reported interest develop into a formal bid.

For now, however, no official approach has been confirmed, and Girona are unlikely to sanction the departure of one of their key players without receiving an offer that matches their valuation.