Leeds United justified in £25m transfer hesitation as former target to leave top league after loss of form
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The Moroccan international was the subject of a reported £22.2 million bid from United back in January 2023 as Leeds sought to retain their Premier League status.
United ultimately moved for Weston McKennie from Juventus on an initial loan deal instead, as Ounahi opted for a move to Marseille from previous club Angers SCO.
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Hide AdOunahi is yet to feature for Roberto De Zerbi's side this season and has scored three times in 44 appearances across all competitions since his winter move just over 18 months ago.
As reported by the YEP in January last year: "Ounahi is a player Orta has been assessing for some time but his price tag, along with the potential competition for his signature, are potential sticking points.
"Leeds did look at the 22-year-old in the summer, when they were quoted between £8m and £12m, but following a breakout World Cup display for Morocco he could now cost somewhere in the region of £25m."
Contrary to conflicting reports which suggested a bid had been placed, the YEP understood Leeds deemed a fee north of £20 million too steep following the arrivals of £11 million Max Wober and £28 million Georginio Rutter that same month.
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Hide AdGreek giants Panathinaikos and Olympiacos are both said to have agreed terms over a loan with Marseille ahead of a proposed transfer to one of the Athens-based clubs. According to Foot Mercato, it is now down to the player once valued at £25 million to pick his next club.
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