In a move that signals shifting priorities in Girona, the Spanish club has reportedly granted Azzedine Ounahi formal permission to travel to Amsterdam and open transfer talks with Ajax. The development marks a notable change from Girona’s earlier stance, which centered on retaining the Moroccan midfielder despite growing interest from abroad. Coach Míchel had reportedly been keen to keep Ounahi in the squad, but the club’s financial and sporting situation appears to have shifted that thinking.
Girona has reportedly given Azzedine Ounahi the green light to travel to Amsterdam and discuss a move with Ajax.
Not every report agrees on the details. Journalist Nil Sola has claimed no travel permission was actually given and that an Ajax move is not imminent, creating some uncertainty around the exact timeline. Still, multiple outlets describe Ajax as the club closest to completing a deal, ahead of other suitors including Al-Ittihad and interested English sides.
Girona’s willingness to sell now appears tied to broader context. The club was relegated to Segunda División, a situation that increases pressure to balance finances and reconsider high-value assets. Ounahi signed a contract running until 2030, giving Girona strong leverage in any negotiation, along with a release clause set at roughly €25m. Reports suggest Girona wants a fee above €10m, though not necessarily the full clause amount.
Ajax, for their part, have identified Ounahi as a top midfield target this summer. Talks between Ajax, Girona, and the player’s camp opened in July, with Ajax working to negotiate a fixed fee well below the release clause. Some reports point to a deal in the region of €10m, with add-ons and sell-on clauses possibly used to bridge the valuation gap. No final agreement has been confirmed.
For Ounahi, the appeal of Ajax reportedly comes down to regular first-team football and European competition. Amsterdam is described as his preferred destination, ahead of other European clubs and Saudi options. His breakthrough at the 2022 World Cup with Morocco, followed by strong performances at Girona, raised his profile and gave him more say in choosing his next step. Like several Atlas Lions before him, Ounahi is part of a generation shaped by Morocco’s diaspora, having developed his early talent abroad before establishing himself internationally.
Whether the move goes through at the reported figures remains to be seen, but the pieces appear to be moving toward a resolution.
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