Azzedine Ounahi is edging closer to a return to Panathinaikos after the Greek club and Girona reportedly reached a verbal agreement over the Moroccan midfielder.
According to French outlet Foot Mercato, Panathinaikos have moved ahead of the competition for Ounahi and are now working to finalize the transfer as quickly as possible.
The Greek side is particularly keen to complete the necessary paperwork in time to register the Moroccan international for its Conference League campaign.
Panathinaikos Push Ahead
Panathinaikos reportedly offered Ounahi the highest salary in the squad, strengthening their position in the race for his signature.
Ajax had also shown strong interest in the midfielder, but the Dutch club reportedly grew frustrated by Ounahi's delayed response, allowing Panathinaikos to move into pole position.
Four clubs are said to have met Girona's valuation, with Ajax, PSV Eindhoven, Al-Ittihad and Panathinaikos all showing willingness to meet the Spanish club's financial demands.
The final decision, however, was left largely in Ounahi's hands.
A Familiar Destination
For Ounahi, a return to Panathinaikos would represent a reunion with a club where he previously enjoyed an impressive spell.
The Moroccan spent the 2024-25 season on loan in Athens, quickly becoming one of the team's most influential players and eventually being named Panathinaikos' Player of the Season.
That successful experience appears to have played an important role in the club's determination to bring him back.
Girona Ready to Move On
Ounahi joined Girona from Marseille in 2025, but his future with the Spanish club has become increasingly uncertain following their relegation.
Girona are reportedly seeking around €15 million for the midfielder, while Greek media reports claim Ounahi is looking for an annual salary of approximately €4 million.
Such a contract would reportedly make him one of the highest-paid players in Greek football.
Conference League Deadline
Panathinaikos are eager to complete the transfer without unnecessary delays as they prepare for their European campaign.
The Greek side secured its place in the Conference League after winning its playoff tie 4-3 on aggregate, increasing the urgency surrounding Ounahi's registration.
Neither Panathinaikos nor Girona has officially confirmed the agreement at this stage.
With the Greek transfer window remaining open until September 15, there is still time for the final details to be completed.
Another Moroccan Reunion
A potential return to Athens would also see Ounahi link up with another Moroccan international.
Panathinaikos recently signed midfielder Imran Louza from Watford on August 28, adding another Moroccan presence to the squad.
If the move is finalized, Ounahi would return to a familiar environment, reunite with Moroccan teammate Louza, and begin another chapter in Europe with a club where he has already established a strong connection.
For Ounahi, Athens could once again become the stage for a fresh start.