Panathinaikos pushes for permanent deal for Moroccan midfielder Azzedine Ounahi

Panathinaikos are preparing a renewed push to secure the permanent signing of Moroccan international Azzedine Ounahi, following a successful loan spell from Olympique de Marseille.

The Greek giants are set to submit a new offer that includes a compulsory purchase clause, underlining their intent to keep the midfielder in Athens beyond this season.

Ounahi, who joined Panathinaikos on loan for the 2024–25 campaign, has impressed throughout his time in the Greek capital. Contributing five goals and seven assists in 36 appearances across all competitions, the 24-year-old has quickly become an integral part of the club’s midfield.

His performances have not only helped Panathinaikos in their domestic campaign but have also elevated his profile among the club’s supporters and leadership.

In a recent interview, Ounahi spoke openly about his satisfaction with life at Panathinaikos, calling the season personally “satisfying” and hinting at a desire to continue with the club.

His comments have not gone unnoticed. Club executives are now intent on turning his loan into a permanent move, having been thoroughly convinced by his impact on the pitch.

The initial agreement between Marseille and Panathinaikos involved a €500,000 loan fee, with an €11 million purchase option.

According to reports from Le360Sport, the Greek side is now preparing a revised proposal — another loan deal, this time with a mandatory purchase clause, ensuring the player’s long-term stay.

However, the financial structuring of the deal will depend on another significant transaction.

The proposed transfer of Panathinaikos forward Fotis Ioannidis to Lazio could prove pivotal in unlocking the funds required to finalise Ounahi’s deal.

If the move goes through, the Athens club is expected to increase their offer to Marseille by 20%, boosting the chances of a successful negotiation.

From Marseille’s perspective, the departure of Ounahi seems increasingly likely. Despite being under contract at the Stade Vélodrome until 2027, the Moroccan midfielder is not part of incoming manager Roberto De Zerbi’s long-term plans.

The club’s management is believed to be open to his sale, as they seek to balance their financial books and streamline the squad ahead of a rebuilding phase under the Italian coach.

For Ounahi, the move to Panathinaikos has served as a much-needed revival following an inconsistent spell in Ligue 1. His technical skill, creativity, and tactical discipline have made him a standout performer in Greece, while also solidifying his place in Morocco’s national team setup.

A permanent transfer would offer him both continuity and a platform to continue his development in a system that clearly suits his style of play.

With the summer transfer window fast approaching, Panathinaikos are expected to accelerate negotiations with Marseille.

The club’s ambition to maintain Ounahi as a cornerstone of their midfield is evident, and all indications suggest that the player is equally eager to continue his journey in Athens.

As discussions progress, much will depend on the outcome of Fotis Ioannidis’s potential move to Italy. If Panathinaikos are successful in completing that sale, their ability to finalise the Ounahi deal will significantly improve — making this one of the more closely watched transfer sagas of the Greek summer window.