Le scenario of a transfer window without signings looms over OM
Le scenario at the Vélodrome sees Olympique de Marseille (OM) confronting a summer transfer window that could close without a single new signing, a situation forced by the club’s ongoing financial constraints. The recent collapse of the Lucas Perri deal, which included a €1 million loan fee to Torino, underscores the depth of the problem.
Perri deal falls through
OM had found an agreement with Brazilian goalkeeper Lucas Perri, but could not advance concretely with Leeds United to seal the transfer. The dossier now definitively escapes the club, as Perri is set to join Torino on a paid loan of €1 million, with an option to purchase fixed at €14 million. Perri has given his consent to the Italian side, closing the Marseille option for the player. The loan includes a €14 million purchase option, sealing the financial terms of the move.
Leeds’ goalkeeper will arrive on loan with a purchase option, confirming the shift away from Marseille. The arrangement underscores how the lack of a firm offer from OM leaves its agreements vulnerable.
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Financial limits tighten OM's options
According to Adrien Pittore, cited by Foot01, the hypothesis of a transfer window without any signings is gaining credibility. As long as Marseille cannot submit a firm offer, its player agreements risk remaining without a future. The DNCG and UEFA require L’OM to restore a financial margin before it can reinforce the squad.
To unlock the situation, the board must sell several assets, preferably those with the highest market values. Owner Frank McCourt is reportedly not opposed to completing the summer without new recruits if the financial conditions are not met.
Bruno Genesio knew the club’s difficulties when he arrived, but the scale of the constraints could disrupt his plans. With Strasbourg due to visit the Vélodrome, the new coach must work with the resources at hand while further departures are expected before the market closes.