Barcelona FC is reportedly monitoring Moroccan midfielder Azzedine Ounahi for a potential move to Camp Nou following his 2022 FIFA World Cup performances. Ounahi has been a key part of the exceptional Moroccan side that has surprised everyone with their displays at the ongoing FIFA World Cup in Qatar. The Atlas Lions have become the first-ever African team to reach the semi-finals of the tournament.
They beat Spain, Portugal, and Belgium en route to the semis, where they will face France on December 14. Ounahi has formed a formidable partnership with Sofyan Amrabat in the Moroccan midfield. His displays have garnered Barcelona's interest, according to Mundo Deportivo.
The Blaugrana are looking to sign midfielders in January or next summer to compete with the likes of Pablo Gavi and Pedri Gonzalez. However, their financial situation and La Liga's FFP rules mean they need to look for low-cost options.
Azzedine Ounahi played 119 minutes for Morocco to help them beat Spain on penalties in the Round of 16 of the FIFA World Cup on December 6. He won seven duels and made four tackles and one interception, while also creating one big chance.
After the match, former Spain and Barcelona manager, Luis Enrique expressed his admiration for Ounahi. While he couldn't remember the midfielder's name, Enrique said:
"I was pleasantly surprised by the #8, sorry I forget his name. Oh my God, where does this guy come from? Plays incredibly well, it surprised me, but he was the only one we weren't aware of."