Morocco midfielder Azzedine Ounahi has moved closer to a potential transfer to Ajax after Girona gave him permission to travel to Amsterdam for talks with the Dutch club.
The development represents a significant change in Girona’s position on the 26-year-old, who is under contract with the Spanish side but is keen to leave following their relegation to the second division.
According to Dutch website Football Primeur, Ounahi has received approval from Girona to travel to Amsterdam and discuss a possible move with Ajax officials.
The journey does not mean an agreement has been reached, but it gives Ajax an opportunity to negotiate directly with the player and represents an important step towards a potential transfer before the summer window closes.
Ounahi has attracted considerable interest after another strong international tournament with Morocco. He helped the Atlas Lions reach the quarter-finals of the 2026 World Cup, further strengthening his reputation on the international stage.
Ajax step up pursuit of Ounahi
Ajax have emerged as one of the clubs most interested in signing Ounahi and have already made a financial proposal to Girona.
The midfielder’s contract reportedly contains a €20m release clause. However, none of the interested clubs have activated that clause so far.
Instead, Ajax have chosen to negotiate directly with Girona with an offer below the value of the release clause.
Girona had previously taken a firm stance on the midfielder’s future, particularly regarding the possibility of allowing him to leave for less than €20m.
Their decision to permit Ounahi to travel to Amsterdam therefore suggests that their position may have softened.
The latest development could provide the basis for further negotiations between Ajax and Girona, although the two clubs still need to reach an agreement over the financial terms of the transfer.
For now, Ounahi’s trip to the Netherlands is a sign of progress rather than confirmation that the deal has been completed.
Ounahi wants a fresh start
Ounahi is reportedly keen to leave Girona and begin a new chapter in his career.
Girona’s relegation to the Spanish second division has increased his desire for a move, with the Moroccan looking for an opportunity to continue competing at the highest level.
The midfielder also wants to maintain his position as an important member of the Morocco national team.
His performances at the 2026 World Cup have increased his profile, and a move to Ajax could provide him with an opportunity to remain in a competitive environment while continuing to develop at club level.
The prospect of playing in the Netherlands also gives Ounahi the chance to work under a coach who already knows his qualities.
Michel Sanchez connection could help Ajax
One factor that could work in Ajax’s favour is the presence of Michel Sanchez.
The Spanish coach is familiar with Ounahi after previously working with the midfielder during his time at Girona.
That existing relationship could make the transition to Ajax easier for the Moroccan and potentially strengthen the Dutch club’s case during negotiations.
Ajax also have another Moroccan connection within their squad in the form of Abdellah Ouazzane.
The presence of Ouazzane could provide Ounahi with another familiar link should he complete the move to Amsterdam.
Together, the coach’s previous knowledge of the player and the presence of Moroccan talent at Ajax could help persuade Ounahi that the Dutch club is the right destination for his next stage.
Girona’s change of position
The most significant development in the transfer saga is Girona’s decision to allow Ounahi to negotiate with Ajax.
The Spanish club had previously been reluctant to consider his departure for anything below the €20m release clause.
However, by permitting the player to travel to Amsterdam, Girona have effectively opened the door to direct discussions.
That does not necessarily mean the Spanish side have accepted Ajax’s offer. The financial difference between the Dutch club’s proposal and the release clause remains an issue that must be resolved.
The fact that Girona have allowed negotiations to proceed nevertheless suggests that a compromise could be possible.
Ajax are now expected to intensify their efforts to complete the transfer before the end of the summer window.
Deal remains unfinished
Ounahi’s potential move to Ajax is therefore entering a decisive phase.
The Moroccan wants to leave Girona, Ajax are interested in signing him and the Spanish club have now allowed the player to negotiate directly with the Dutch side.
But the transfer is not yet complete.
The €20m release clause remains an important reference point, while Ajax’s offer is understood to be below that amount.
The coming hours could therefore prove crucial as the clubs attempt to find an agreement.
For Ounahi, a move to Amsterdam would represent a fresh opportunity after Girona’s relegation and could help him maintain his place among Morocco’s leading international players.
For Ajax, signing a midfielder who impressed at the World Cup would strengthen their squad while also adding a player already familiar to their coach.
With Ounahi now permitted to negotiate in Amsterdam, the possibility of a move from Girona to Ajax has become considerably more realistic.
