TyC Sports report that Angers midfielder and Morocco’s World Cup star Azzedine Ounahi is set to join Serie A leaders Napoli for a fee of £17.5million – amid reports that Tottenham have held talks to sign the impressive talent this week.
Ounahi, 22, sparkled at the World Cup. He played in all of Morocco’s matches including the semi-final defeat to France, before coming on as a sub in the third-placed play-off against Croatia. A stunning campaign for him, and Morocco.
Since the competition in Qatar, Ounahi has been linked with numerous clubs. Leicester, from the Premier League, have been one of the main contenders. But this week, La Repubblica reported that Tottenham were in talks to land Ounahi.
However, the latest says states that Napoli have agreed a move. Ounahi is ‘one step away’ from striking a £17.5m move to Napoli – in which he will be loaned out for the rest of the season. Leicester and Lyon could still sign him on loan.
Ounahi set to join Napoli amid reports Tottenham have held talks
So, while he would be joining Napoli – where Tanguy Ndombele is currently impressing on loan – he may leave as soon as he completes his move. A loan exit, with Lyon and Leicester, may see Ounahi continue to play regularly after a move.
But for Spurs, it is another blow as Fabio Paratici looks to spend Tottenham’s limited funds to appease Antonio Conte. Conte would like another midfielder, perhaps one with more of an attacking mindset. A right-back is also on the radar.
But it looks as if, at least for now, Spurs will not be signing Ounahi this month. Indeed, Napoli appear a much more attractive move given their position in Serie A. For £17.5m, it is a decent fee, more expensive than Rodrigo Bentancur.
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