Leeds United are preparing to make a major statement in the summer transfer window, with manager Daniel Farke identifying Azzedine Ounahi as his top midfield target. The Whites are now seriously interested in signing the £17m-rated Girona star, with the German boss believing the Moroccan international can become the “new Mateusz Klich” at Elland Road.
Fresh from securing Premier League survival, Leeds are looking to strengthen smartly. According to reports, Farke is convinced that Ounahi possesses the creativity, work-rate, and goal threat needed to form a formidable partnership with Anton Stach in the heart of midfield.
Leeds Plotting £17m Move for Ounahi
Leeds United will be one of the most intriguing sides to follow during the upcoming transfer window. After a dramatic campaign that saw them battle against relegation and ultimately survive, expectations are high for further improvement. However, financial prudence remains key.
49ers Enterprises chief Paraag Marathe recently addressed the club’s strategy, highlighting the shift from Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) to the new Squad Cost Ratio (SCR). In his comments to supporters, Marathe stated:
“This summer, instead of Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR), the Squad Cost Ratio (SCR) will impact our transfer market approach. As our accounts reflect, we spent every penny possible, as promised, to earn promotion and keep the club in the Premier League. Our approach to the transfer market will once again be strategic and disciplined to comply with regulations while striving further to improve, and players will both arrive and depart as a result.”
Despite these constraints, Leeds are ready to pounce on high-value opportunities. French journalist Sebastien Vidal reports that the club are now seriously plotting a move for Azzedine Ounahi. The 25-year-old Moroccan midfielder, currently at Girona in La Liga, fits the profile of a player who can deliver immediate impact without breaking the bank entirely.
Farke Sees Ounahi as the New Klich
Daniel Farke has a clear vision for his midfield. He views Ounahi as the ideal successor to the legacy left by fan-favourite Mateusz Klich. During his time at Leeds, Klich became a cult hero known for his energy, technical ability, and crucial goals from midfield. Farke believes Ounahi can replicate — and potentially exceed — that influence.
Ounahi, who rose to prominence with his performances at the 2022 World Cup for Morocco, joined Girona last year and has shown flashes of brilliance in a competitive La Liga environment. His blend of physicality, vision, and attacking instincts has impressed scouts across Europe, making him a realistic target for Premier League clubs.
Ounahi Could Partner Anton Stach at Leeds
It was only last summer that Leeds welcomed Anton Stach as a key midfield reinforcement. The Polish international has since emerged as one of the standout performers under Farke, delivering consistent displays that have anchored the side. Now, the manager wants to build around him with Ounahi as the perfect complement.
Here is a side-by-side comparison of their league statistics from the 2025/26 season:
| League Stats 25/26 | Ounahi | Stach |
|---|---|---|
| Minutes | 1,766 | 2,378 |
| Goals | 5 | 5 |
| Pass Success | 85.8% | 77.3% |
| Duel Success | 51.3% | 53.1% |
| Recoveries | 80 | 119 |
The numbers highlight a strong potential synergy. While Stach excels in recoveries and duels, offering defensive solidity and box-to-box energy, Ounahi brings superior passing accuracy and creative flair. Together, they could form a balanced midfield duo capable of both protecting the defence and fueling attacks. Farke sees this partnership as key to avoiding the dreaded “second-season syndrome” that often hits newly-promoted or survival-focused sides.
Why £17m Represents Smart Business
At £17 million, the fee for Ounahi may appear steep at first glance, especially under Squad Cost Ratio constraints. However, analysts argue it could prove to be excellent value. The Moroccan has shown he can perform at a high level in one of Europe’s toughest leagues, and his age profile (25) means he has several peak years ahead.
Leeds have a track record of identifying undervalued or under-utilised talents who flourish in Farke’s system. Ounahi’s ability to score from midfield (5 goals this season) would add a goal threat that many rival midfields lack. His composure on the ball would also help Leeds control games better, addressing a weakness evident in several narrow defeats last term.
Moreover, signing Ounahi would send a strong message to fans and the dressing room that Leeds are committed to building a competitive squad capable of pushing for a top-half finish rather than just battling relegation. With European football ambitions on the horizon, such targeted investments are essential.
Player Profile: Azzedine Ounahi’s Strengths
Standing at 1.82m, Ounahi is a versatile central midfielder who can operate in a double pivot or as an advanced playmaker. His technical qualities include excellent close control, vision for through balls, and the ability to strike from distance. Defensively, he contributes with intelligent pressing and positional discipline.
His experience at international level, including memorable performances against top nations at the World Cup, has hardened him for the physical demands of the Premier League. Supporters are already excited at the prospect of seeing him in the famous white kit, with many taking to social media to express their enthusiasm.
Financial Context and Squad Planning
Paraag Marathe’s comments underline the disciplined approach Leeds must take. While remaining in the Premier League provides vital revenue through broadcasting deals and commercial growth, compliance with SCR rules means incoming transfers must be balanced with potential outgoing sales.
This summer’s strategy will likely involve a mix of permanent signings, smart loans, and sales of fringe players. Ounahi represents a focused investment rather than a scattergun approach, aligning perfectly with the club’s long-term vision that includes stadium expansion and growing their global fanbase.
Potential Challenges and Next Steps
Securing Ounahi will not be straightforward. Girona, backed by the City Football Group, value the player highly and may demand closer to £20m. Competition from other clubs in England and Europe could also intensify if Leeds delay their bid.
Additionally, Ounahi would need to adapt quickly to the intensity and pace of English football. However, Farke’s man-management and tactical setup have proven effective at integrating new signings rapidly, as seen with Stach and others.
If the deal goes through, it could mark the start of an exciting rebuild. Leeds fans are already losing their minds at the prospect, with many believing this signing could be transformative for the team’s midfield dynamics.
What This Means for Leeds United
Bringing in Azzedine Ounahi would not only strengthen the squad but also boost morale ahead of a crucial campaign. With Farke at the helm, the club has stability and a clear playing philosophy. Adding quality in key areas like midfield is the logical next step toward sustained Premier League success.
As the transfer window heats up, all eyes will be on whether Leeds pull the trigger on this £17m deal. If they do, Ounahi has the potential to become a new fan favourite — the “next Klich” who helps drive the club forward.
The coming weeks will be decisive. Leeds supporters are buzzing with anticipation, hoping their club can once again show transfer market shrewdness that punches above their financial weight.