The Olympique de Marseille is at work to strengthen its workforce before the end of the mercato, with several concrete tracks in progress. One of the priorities is the recruitment of an experienced defender, Nayef Aguerd, with advanced discussions with West Ham. This operation could be carried out regardless of Joël Ordóñez’s potential arrival, aimed at filling the lack of defensive strength felt this season. However, competition is present, with Sunderland’s interest, which could speed up OM negotiations. At the same time, the club explores the arrival of Oleksandr Zinchenko, a versatile Arsenal player capable of evolving both in defence and midfield. Although salary costs are a challenge, OM is continuing its efforts to convince the player and Arsenal, in the hope of strengthening its workforce for the Champions League.

The future of Kobbie Mainoo, a young midfielder from Manchester United, is also at the heart of the discussions. The player expressed his desire to leave the club to get more play time, an application initially refused by Manchester United. Despite this, the English club is considering a loan abroad, and OM is positioned as a credible option to welcome the talented community. The attraction of a European team and the possibility of finding players trained in Manchester United, such as Mason Greenwood and Angel Gomes, are arguments for a transfer to Marseille. The situation remains uncertain, but OM is attentive and ready to seize an opportunity if the case unlocks in the last hours of the mercato.

Finally, Argentine player Lionel Scaloni unveiled the list of players called for the next qualifying matches for the 2026 World Cup. Two players from Olympique de Marseille, Gerónimo Rulli and Leonardo Balerdi, are in the band. Facundo Medina, on the other hand, is forced to declare a lump sum due to an injury. Lionel Messi’s return is a major element of this convocation, and the match against Venezuela potentially marks his last appearance in this chamber in qualifying game. The presence of Rulli and Balerdi demonstrates the recognition of OM’s potential and their regularity in selection, with the possibility for Balerdi to consolidate his position in the Argentine defence.