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Moroccan international Oussama El Azzouzi is reportedly on the verge of joining Ligue 1 outfit AJ Auxerre on a season-long loan from Italian side Bologna.
The deal, which is expected to be confirmed shortly, will not include an option to buy, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Moroccoworldnews.com reported.
The 24-year-old endured a difficult 2024/25 campaign, having featured for only 25 minutes in Serie A after suffering a serious knee injury.
Since joining Bologna from Belgian club Union Saint-Gilloise in 2023, El Azzouzi has struggled for regular game time, making just three league appearances.
A versatile player capable of operating both as a defensive midfielder and a centre-back, El Azzouzi is looking to revive his career and gain valuable minutes on the pitch.
His move to France is seen as a crucial step in regaining match fitness and form ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, which Morocco will host from 21 December.
The midfielder was part of Morocco's Olympic squad last year and has recently broken into the senior national team under coach Walid Regragui.
With competition for places intensifying, regular playing time will be essential if El Azzouzi hopes to secure a spot in the final AFCON squad.
Auxerre, who earned promotion back to Ligue 1, have been proactive in the transfer market as they aim to cement their top-flight status. The club sees El Azzouzi as a smart addition who brings depth, physicality, and international experience.
Should he remain injury-free, the loan spell in France could provide El Azzouzi with the perfect platform to relaunch his career for both club and country.
