In a recent interview (via Area Napoli), RAI journalist Ciro Venerato mentioned that Leeds United are facing stiff competition for Angers ace Azzedine Ounahi. Venerato said,
“The problem is Angers who are asking for €25m. Napoli are offering €15m, including bonuses. Leipzig, Leicester and Leeds are ready to offer more money.”
Ounahi’s Impressive Run Of Form For Angers And Morocco
Ounahi has enjoyed a solid campaign in Ligue 1 as he has managed to produce a run of consistent performances in the opponent’s half. The gifted talent has made 14 appearances for Angers this season on all fronts.
The 22-year-old has proven himself to be one of the best midfielders in France and deserves credit for averaging 1.4 tackles, 1.1 interceptions, 1.6 shots, 1.2 key passes and 2.6 dribbles per 90 minutes in Ligue 1. He has even been excellent when distributing possession from midfield after making 88.6% of his attempted passes in the French first division (stats via whoscored).
Ounahi is playing at a high level and helped Morocco secure a fourth-place finish in the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar recently.
Should Leeds United Head Coach Jesse Marsch Snap Ounahi Up?
Ounahi is a solid tackler of the ball and can sense the danger quickly to earn the ball back for his side at the centre of the park. He doesn’t mind putting his foot through the ball when the opposition are on the offensive. Ounahi is primarily a box-to-box midfielder but can also fill in as a defensive anchorman or play in the number ten position as an attacking midfielder if his manager tells him to do so.
The Morocco international can shoot the ball with power and accuracy from long range and can make some decent runs with the ball from midfield. He can even create a few decent chances for others around him in the final third.
We can expect Ounahi to add more quality to Leeds United‘s midfield department at Elland Road. He could even help the Whites push for a European place in Premier League football over the next few years.
At 22, Ounahi has got a bright future ahead of him and would be an excellent, long-term signing for the West Yorkshire club this month. All in all, Marsch should consider going all out to snap him up during this January transfer period. However, only time will tell whether he can make a smooth transition to life in Premier League football.
