Marseille’s budget squeeze drops Kebbal chase, giving Lens a chance

Olympique de Marseille (OM) will not sign Ilan Kebbal this summer, citing financial constraints and the lack of an agreement with the Algerian international. The decision also removes a rival for RC Lens, which had been linked with the midfielder.

Foot01 reported that Marseille’s budget does not allow the club to complete the transfer of the Paris FC player. The club must first sell players before strengthening the squad of head coach Bruno Genesio.

Paris FC rejected a loan with an option to buy, saying it does not want to facilitate the departure of its Algerian international to a direct Ligue 1 competitor. Consequently, Marseille and Kebbal could not agree on contract terms.

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The French side has isolated itself in the Netherlands for pre‑season preparations, holding a training camp in Zeist. The club’s staff described the setting as a calm environment for the squad.

Unless a huge reversal occurs, Kebbal will not join the Canebière, forcing OM to look for less costly offensive profiles as the league season resumes.

RC Lens, known as the Sang et Or, remains among the clubs interested, but the withdrawal of Marseille reduces competition without guaranteeing a move for the player. Kebbal stays under contract with Paris FC, leaving two paths: continue his career in the capital or accept a new challenge elsewhere.

The OM abandonment could revive other suitors in the dossier, as Les Clubs reassess their options now that the primary rival has stepped back.