Two years of quiet observation may soon turn into concrete action. Atlético Madrid have monitored Azzedine Ounahi since early 2024, initially viewing him as a medium-term option to strengthen their midfield in a future window. That interest has now sharpened into something more immediate, driven by circumstances at Girona and by Ounahi’s performances on the world stage.
Two years of quiet scouting are giving way to urgency, as Atlético eye Ounahi with fresh, immediate intent.
The Moroccan midfielder impressed during a difficult season at Girona, standing out as one of the club’s most reliable performers even as the team slipped out of La Liga in 2025/26. His form only added to a reputation built years earlier at Angers SCO, when his breakout at the 2022 World Cup first caught the attention of clubs including Atlético and Sevilla. Ounahi has long been regarded as a rising star of the Atlas Lions, a status further cemented by his displays for Morocco at the 2026 World Cup, which have since reignited internal conversations at Atlético about reopening talks for a transfer.
Girona’s relegation has changed the financial picture considerably. Ounahi remains under contract until 2030 following his move there in August 2025, but his release clause, originally set near €20m, is now believed to have dropped to around €10m due to the club’s drop in status. Market estimates support that lower figure, with Transfermarkt valuing him close to €10m as well.
Girona, for their part, are reportedly hoping for offers nearer €20m to protect the profit made on their roughly €6m initial investment, creating a gap between valuation and ambition that will likely shape negotiations.
Sporting logic explains much of Atlético’s renewed push. Diego Simeone is looking to rebuild his midfield with a player who can operate in both defensive and attacking phases without losing balance. Ounahi’s combination of ball progression, press resistance, and tactical flexibility fits that description. His World Cup showings, particularly his composure under pressure and ability to carry the ball through tight spaces, reinforced the belief that he could adapt to Atlético’s demanding system.
With Girona’s reduced leverage and Atlético’s long-standing interest converging, the coming weeks may determine whether two years of scouting finally translate into a formal approach for the versatile Moroccan international.
Get the Atlas Lions Weekly
The biggest Morocco football stories, player updates and analysis—delivered to your inbox every Sunday.
