Leicester City are preparing a massive €50 million bid for Morocco’s World Cup star Azzedine Ounahi in January.
According to Fichajes, Azzedine Ounahi is a definitive target for Leicester City, with the Foxes reportedly preparing a massive bid in January. The Moroccan World Cup star has fallen on the radar of many clubs following some impressive displays in Qatar.
Azzedine Ounahi has made a name for himself following some terrific displays in midfield for Morocco at the FIFA World Cup. The Angers man earned plaudits from Luis Enrique following Spain’s penalty shootout defeat to the Africans.
He has been a consistent feature for Morocco on their historic road to a World Cup semi-final. His performances have naturally attracted the attention of some of the ambitious clubs in football, including heavy interest from Barcelona. Naturally, the Catalans are keen, but his overall asking price could prove problematic.
Ounahi only signed a new contract in the summer until 2026, meaning Angers will have the right to demand a significant fee in return. The report suggests that Leicester City are in the chase and prepared to make a €50 million offer for the Moroccan World Cup star.
The offer, if true, would make it a tempting prospect for Angers to consider, and if that’s the benchmark, then Barcelona could count themselves out of the running. However, the Foxes are keen to freshen up their midfield and may see the 22-year-old as a wise investment.
If they are to receive positive signals from the player’s side, then Leicester might consider selling Youri Tielemans on a cut-price deal. It could help fund part of the Ounahi transfer. The Belgian is a crucial target for Arsenal, who continue to wait in the wings for the midfielder.
The Gunners have remained keen since the summer, but Leicester’s asking price proved problematic. They were expected to make a final offer in January before deciding to wait until the summer when Tielemans will become a free agent. Hence, if the Foxes can sign Ounahi, the Belgian could make way.
Ounahi is a tremendous target, but only signing him based on his World Cup performances may prove a bit risky. However, in general, the quality is there for many to see, and the midfielder could prove worthwhile with better players around him. Arsenal will hope the move transpires, for they could bring Tielemans on board for the title challenge.
