The injury to Faris Moumbagna, who replaced Elye Wahi at the forefront of Marseille’s attack, is prompting OM to become active in the market for number 9s. OM faces a significant challenge: it is seeking a player on loan, which seems to eliminate the possibility of acquiring Martin Satriano, whom Inter is looking to sell (Brest and Lens are notably in contention). OM has compiled a list of three potential candidates today, with Neal Maupay being a prominent option.
The 28-year-old Everton striker, who was on loan at Brentford last season, still has one year remaining on his contract with the Toffees. The player and his entourage are intrigued by the challenge that Marseille presents. The only remaining task is to negotiate favorable terms with Everton regarding the loan arrangements and salary aspects. Currently, the Liverpool club is not particularly receptive to this arrangement. Nice, his preferred club where Maupay was trained, has also made inquiries, but their financial situation appears to be too limited.
OM in search of liquidity, also pressing for Rowe
In terms of attacking options, OM is continuing its pursuit of Norwich left winger Jonathan Rowe, who is 21 years old. The English player has had an impressive 2023-2024 season in the Championship and is under contract until 2025, with an optional extension that can be activated by Norwich. He has attracted interest from several clubs, including one in Serie A and two others in the Premier League, as well as Leeds United in the Championship, but OM appears to be in the lead. Reports from England indicate that OM has already had two offers rejected, but the Marseille club remains undeterred.
OM is primarily in urgent need of liquidity. The club is struggling to finalize departures, with Samuel Gigot, Jordan Veretout, and Chancel Mbemba still in Provence, along with Azzedine Ounahi. The 24-year-old Moroccan international turned down an offer from Qatar in July, and OM is not interested in a loan, such as the recent proposal from Las Palmas. The player and his entourage are currently exploring two potential destinations, one in the Gulf and another in Europe. Eager to sell, OM is also listening to offers for Bamo Meïté and Amine Harit, the latter of whom was not swayed by an offer from Genoa.
Marseille’s Urgent Search for a Number 9: Key Players and Strategies
In recent developments within Olympique de Marseille (OM), the injury to Faris Moumbagna has sparked a pressing need for the club to actively engage in the transfer market, particularly in search of a reliable forward. As Elye Wahi’s replacement in the attack, Moumbagna’s absence has intensified Marseille’s pursuit for a new striker, ideally on loan. This article delves into OM’s strategies, potential targets, and the club’s pressing need for liquidity.
The Challenge: Finding a Loaned Number 9
With the constraints of acquiring a player on loan, OM’s options have significantly narrowed. One notable target that has emerged in discussions is Neal Maupay, a 28-year-old striker currently contracted with Everton. Previously on loan at Brentford last season, Maupay brings valuable experience and skill to the pitch, which could help fill the void left by Moumbagna.
Neal Maupay’s Situation
- Current Contract: Maupay has one year left on his deal with Everton.
- Marseille’s Interest: Both the player and his entourage are keen on the challenge posed by Marseille.
- Loan Negotiations: The crucial factor lies in negotiating favorable loan terms with Everton, especially regarding salary adjustments.
While Maupay is keen, Everton’s stance on negotiating a loan appears uncertain, posing a significant hurdle for OM. Interestingly, Nice, Maupay’s former club where he trained, has also shown interest; however, their financial limitations may inhibit any potential move.
Additional Targets: The Pursuit of Jonathan Rowe
Alongside the quest for a new striker, Marseille is keeping an eye on left winger Jonathan Rowe from Norwich City. The 21-year-old is enjoying a breakout campaign in the Championship and has caught the attention of several clubs across Europe.
Rowe’s Profile and Competition
- Contract Status: Rowe is under contract until 2025, with a potential extension that Norwich could activate.
- Competitive Interest: The winger has garnered interest from various clubs, including those in Serie A and multiple Premier League teams.
- Rejected Offers: Reports indicate that two offers from OM have already been turned down, but the club remains undeterred.
In context, OM’s persistence in pursuing Rowe reflects their urgency in reinforcing their attacking front amidst ongoing injury challenges.
Financial Constraints: OM’s Urgent Need for Liquidity
As Marseille navigates the transfer market, the club is grappling with significant financial constraints. The inability to offload certain players has contributed to OM’s liquidity issues.
Current Squad Concerns
- Unwanted Players: Samuel Gigot, Jordan Veretout, and Chancel Mbemba remain at the club, with their departures proving stagnant.
- Azzedine Ounahi’s Situation: Despite interest from Qatari clubs, Ounahi declined an offer in July. Marseille is not interested in loans, complicating his potential exit.
- Active Listening: OM is open to offers for players like Bamo Meïté and Amine Harit, although Harit has turned down interest from Genoa.
Case Study: Successful Loan Moves in Football
Loan deals have historically been beneficial for both players and clubs. Here are some notable examples:
| Player | From Club | To Club | Season | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jadon Sancho | Manchester City | Borussia Dortmund | 2017-18 | Key player, later sold for big money |
| Romelu Lukaku | Chelsea | West Bromwich Albion | 2012-13 | Impressive loan led to permanent success |
| Hakim Ziyech | Ajax | Chelsea | 2019-20 | Seamless integration, key player |
Benefits of Loaning Players
- Development Opportunities: Players gain vital experience and playing time.
- Financial Flexibility: Loan deals allow clubs to manage salaries effectively.
- Potential Future Sales: Successful loans often lead to permanent transfers, benefiting the original club.
Practical Tips for Marseille’s Transfer Strategy
To optimize transfers, OM can adopt the following strategies:
- Focus on Emerging Talent: Identifying young, up-and-coming players could provide long-term benefits.
- Strengthen Negotiation Tactics: Engaging in more proactive discussions with clubs could yield better loan agreements.
- Leverage Player Connections: Utilizing previous relationships with players and agents to negotiate attractive terms.
As Marseille navigates this intricate market landscape, the urgency of their situation necessitates a robust strategy that can effectively address both immediate needs and long-term aspirations.
