Olympique Marseille are still interested in signing Manchester United outcast Eric Bailly on a permanent transfer this summer.
According to Sky Sports reporter Dharmesh Sheth, the Ligue 1 club is actively pursuing the Ivorian center-back’s signature before the transfer window closes.
Marseille are keen to secure the services of the 29-year-old defender, who spent the previous season on loan at the Orange Velodrome.
While they haven’t yet formally expressed their interest in the player, who is also drawing attention from Fulham, United anticipates receiving an official offer from the French club in the near future.
Marseille are pushing to sign Manchester United defender Eric Bailly. No official bid yet. Bailly has 1 year left on his United contract. United have the option to extend for a further year. Bailly not part of Erik ten Hag’s long term plans. #MUFC #Marseille
— Dharmesh Sheth (@skysports_sheth) August 25, 2023
While on loan at Marseille, the Africa Cup of Nations winner faced a significant amount of time on the sidelines due to injury and suspensions.
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He made 23 appearances in various competitions for Igor Tudor’s team, displaying some solid performances but not making a significant impact on the squad.
However, it seems that his time at Marseille was convincing enough for the club’s hierarchy to consider a permanent deal, and United are willing to part ways with him this summer.
Bailly is also open to the transfer, and it’s understood that reaching an agreement on personal terms between the player and Marseille should not pose any issues.
The former Villarreal defender has just one year left on his contract at Old Trafford, and although United can extend it for another year, it’s unlikely they will do so. This decision is because Bailly is not part of Erik ten Hag’s long-term plans for the club.
The Red Devils are eager to recoup a transfer fee from Bailly’s expected departure, which would contribute to their efforts to raise funds for the signing of Fiorentina midfielder Sofyan Amrabat.
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The club sees the need for a player with Amrabat’s profile in their midfield, especially considering their performance in the opening two games of the season.
In addition, there are rumours linking United to Brazilian striker Marcos Leonardo, who is also a target for Serie A giants AS Roma.
