In the midst of a frantic end to the summer transfer window, Olympique Marseille has shifted its attention to RB Leipzig defender Lutsharel Geertruida. The club is under considerable pressure to finalize its squad as the deadline rapidly approaches, with key defensive reinforcements being a top priority.
Following significant squad changes this summer, which included the departures of Azzedine Ounahi to Girona and Jonathan Rowe to Bologna, Marseille`s management is now intensely focused on strengthening its defensive line. While the club had actively pursued Joel Ordóñez of Club Brugge for some time, those negotiations have reportedly stalled, primarily due to the Belgian side`s reluctance to part ways with their promising Ecuadorian talent. Simultaneously, discussions with West Ham for Moroccan international Nayef Aguerd are still in progress, with Aguerd reportedly expressing a strong interest in a move to the Vélodrome.
With merely two days remaining before the transfer window officially closes, Marseille is accelerating its search for viable alternatives. Geertruida, who made the move to Leipzig from Feyenoord last summer (and was previously a target for PSG), has now emerged as a primary candidate. The 25-year-old`s inaugural season in Germany was considered underwhelming, and the Netherlands international, boasting 17 caps for his country, is reportedly open to a transfer to France`s Ligue 1.
Geertruida offers valuable versatility, being capable of competently playing both as a right-back and in central defense, which would significantly bolster Roberto De Zerbi`s tactical options. He is currently under contract with RB Leipzig until 2029, and the Bundesliga club is expected to demand a transfer fee in the region of €20 million for his services. Negotiations between Olympique Marseille and RB Leipzig are presently ongoing, as both clubs look to reach a satisfactory agreement before the deadline and secure this crucial signing.
