Rabat – Morocco international Azzedine Ounahi could be heading for the exit at Girona this summer, with Ajax emerging as the midfielder’s preferred destination as negotiations continue.
According to recent reports, the Amsterdam club is pushing to bring Ounahi to the Eredivisie, with the player reportedly attracted by the prospect of working with Míchel again.
The Spanish coach managed Ounahi at Girona last season before taking charge of Ajax.
Ajax’s interest in Ounahi is understood to be concrete.
Fabrizio Romano reported in July that the Dutch club had opened talks with both Girona and the player’s representatives, while seeking to negotiate a fee below the €25 million release clause attached to his contract.
The transfer fee remains a key issue in the negotiations. Ounahi is contracted to Girona until June 2030, giving the Spanish club a strong position in discussions over his departure.
The 26-year-old’s relationship with Míchel could nevertheless prove influential.
Having previously worked under the coach, Ounahi is reportedly keen on the possibility of continuing his career under his former manager in Amsterdam.
Interest mounting
Interest has also been reported from English side Hull City and clubs in Saudi Arabia, while Barcelona and Manchester City have previously been linked with the midfielder.
However, those reports have not resulted in formal offers.
Ounahi’s preference for remaining in European football has reportedly strengthened Ajax’s position in the race.
The Moroccan midfielder is now considered one of the players whose futures remain uncertain at Girona following the club’s relegation to Spain’s second tier.
His absence from Girona’s opening league fixture against Leganés on Sunday further fueled speculation surrounding his future.
Ounahi was neither named in the starting lineup nor included among the substitutes as Girona drew 1-1 with Leganés, although no official explanation was given for his omission.
No final agreement between Girona and Ajax has been announced.
