Marseille and Aston Villa battle for Toulouse’s Guillaume Restes

Marseille have announced they will prioritize signing Toulouse goalkeeper Guillaume Restes, 21, sparking a rivalry with Premier League side Aston Villa for the French U23 international, according to a report from Foot Mercato. The 21‑year‑old is under contract with Toulouse until 2028 and has expressed interest in a move to the Ligue 1 club.

Marseille are under pressure to balance their books this summer, with the club needing to sell players to clear a deficit and avoid further sanctions from the French football watchdog, the DNCG. The financial strain has made the Olympians eager to secure a transfer fee for any valuable asset. Targeting Restes aligns with the club’s strategy to generate revenue while strengthening the squad.

The pursuit of Restes also follows current OM number one Geronimo Rulli is close to a deal with Premier League side Manchester City. If Rulli departs, Marseille will need a reliable first‑choice goalkeeper for the upcoming season.

Restes, the TFC number one, featured in 33 matches for Toulouse FC, known as Les Violets, during last season. He has also earned 19 caps for France’s U23 side, highlighting his experience at international youth level.

Aston Villa have entered the race for the goalkeeper, monitoring the situation in case their incumbent Emiliano Martinez moves to Juventus this summer. Villa’s interest provides Restes with a potential Premier League destination should the Juventus transfer materialise.

In parallel, Marseille are seeking to move their second‑choice keeper Jeffrey De Lange, with Dutch club Twente reported to be interested in a deal. The potential departure of De Lange would further reshape the Olympians’ goalkeeping department.

Should Marseille complete the Restes signing, the club could alleviate part of its financial deficit and have a young French international ready to step up if Rulli leaves. For Restes, a move to either Marseille or Aston Villa would represent a step up from Ligue 2, offering exposure in a top league and the chance to compete for a starting role.