Rabat – Spanish champions Barcelona are reportedly considering a move for Moroccan international Azzedine Ounahi as they search for midfield reinforcements following the long-term injury suffered by Dutch star Frenkie de Jong.
According to Footmercato, Ounahi has emerged as one of the names being discussed internally after De Jong was ruled out for an estimated four to six months with a serious knee ligament injury sustained during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Reuters reported that Barcelona confirmed the midfielder returned from the tournament with torn knee ligaments, forcing the club to reassess its options in midfield.
Not sure yet
Yet the report remains at the speculation stage. Barcelona has not announced any negotiations with Ounahi or his representatives, and no agreement has been reached.
The Moroccan midfielder has long attracted interest from several European clubs thanks to his technical ability, ball progression, and vision in midfield. Ounahi first rose to international prominence during Morocco’s historic run to the 2022 FIFA World Cup semifinals in Qatar, where his performances earned widespread praise and sparked transfer interest from clubs across Europe.
The background
Barcelona’s search for a midfielder has intensified following De Jong’s absence, with several reports indicating the club is exploring multiple options rather than focusing on a single target. While Manchester City’s Rodri has been described as the club’s ideal signing, financial and sporting obstacles make such a deal difficult, prompting Barcelona to evaluate more attainable alternatives.
Ounahi has frequently been linked with moves away in recent transfer windows. Ajax, Al-Ittihad, and other clubs have reportedly shown interest in the Atlas Lions midfielder, whose composure under pressure and ability to dictate play continue to attract attention.
For now, Barcelona’s reported interest remains unconfirmed by the club, and it is unclear whether the Catalan side will make a formal approach before the transfer window closes. Much could depend on the club’s financial flexibility and the recovery timeline for De Jong, as Hansi Flick weighs whether to rely on internal options or strengthen his midfield with a new signing.
