Girona look to cash in on Moroccan international Azzedine Ounahi
Girona offer Azzedine Ounahi to Manchester City as summer plans take shape
Girona have proposed the transfer of Moroccan international Azzedine Ounahi to Manchester City ahead of the next summer window, as the Spanish club looks to generate revenue through player sales.
The move, reported by transfer specialist Santi Aouna, signals a proactive approach from Girona’s management, who are seeking to position the 26-year-old midfielder for a potential switch within the City Football Group network.
Ounahi, often described as a technically gifted midfielder, has been placed on the market as part of Girona’s broader financial strategy.
The club is understood to be open to selling the player in order to secure a significant transfer fee.
According to the same source, the player’s release clause is set at approximately €20m. That figure could make negotiations more straightforward, particularly given the existing links between the two clubs.
Girona and Manchester City are both part of the City Football Group, a structure that has previously facilitated player movement between affiliated teams.
This relationship is seen as a factor that could influence the progress of any potential deal.
The Spanish club’s decision to offer Ounahi reflects both sporting and financial considerations.
On one hand, it presents an opportunity to capitalise on the player’s market value.
On the other, it aligns with Manchester City’s reported interest in reinforcing their midfield options ahead of the new season.
While there has been no confirmation of formal negotiations, the initiative taken by Girona suggests a willingness to explore the possibility.
The involvement of two clubs within the same ownership network could streamline discussions, though no outcome has yet been determined.
Ounahi’s profile has attracted attention in recent seasons, particularly due to his technical qualities and ability to operate in midfield roles.
His age and experience place him in a category of players capable of contributing immediately while still offering long-term value.
For Girona, the decision to make the player available follows a familiar pattern.
The club has previously relied on player sales as a means of strengthening its financial position.
A similar approach was taken in the summer of 2024, when Brazilian player Savinho was sold as part of efforts to generate revenue.
That precedent highlights a strategy based on developing players and then transferring them at a profit.
Offering Ounahi to Manchester City fits within this framework, combining sporting considerations with financial planning.
From Manchester City’s perspective, the situation reflects a broader need to evaluate squad depth.
Strengthening midfield options is part of ongoing preparations for the next campaign, although the club has not publicly confirmed any interest in the player.
The connection between the two clubs adds a layer of complexity to the potential move.
Being part of the same group can facilitate transfers, but each decision remains subject to sporting and financial assessments.
At this stage, the process appears to be in its early phases.
Girona’s initiative represents the first step, with any further developments dependent on Manchester City’s response and subsequent discussions.
The €20m release clause could play a key role in shaping the outcome.
Such a figure is considered accessible in the current transfer market, potentially making the deal more feasible compared to higher-profile transfers.
However, no guarantees exist that the transfer will proceed.
The situation remains fluid, with multiple factors likely to influence the final decision, including squad requirements, financial considerations, and timing.
Ounahi’s future is therefore uncertain as the summer window approaches.
The player remains under contract, but the possibility of a move has now been clearly introduced.
For Girona, the objective is straightforward: to maximise the value of their assets while maintaining competitiveness.
Offering Ounahi to Manchester City reflects that balance between financial ambition and sporting planning.
For Manchester City, the decision will depend on how the player fits into their broader strategy.
Evaluating potential additions is part of routine planning, and Ounahi is now among the names under consideration.
As the transfer window draws closer, further clarity is expected.
Discussions, if they take place, will determine whether Girona’s proposal leads to a concrete agreement.
Until then, the situation remains one to watch.
The combination of an available player, an established relationship between clubs, and a defined release clause creates the conditions for a potential deal, though its outcome is yet to be decided.
