Mandanda Linked with Marseille Exit as AC Milan Monitor Goalkeeper Options
Steve Mandanda may be preparing for a departure from Marseille this summer, with growing speculation linking the French international with a move to Serie A.
The long-serving OM captain, who has reportedly taken up residence in Monaco, is said to be attracting serious interest from Italian clubs. Among the potential suitors is AC Milan, who are exploring alternatives in goal amid uncertainty surrounding their pursuit of Real Madrid’s Iker Casillas.
According to reports in the French and Italian media, the Rossoneri have identified Mandanda as a potential fallback should talks with Casillas stall. The 29-year-old, known for his consistency and leadership, has long been regarded as one of Ligue 1’s top goalkeepers.
Milan are not short on options, however. Their reported shortlist includes Stéphane Ruffier of Saint-Étienne, Lazio’s Federico Marchetti, and highly rated Genoa shot-stopper Mattia Perin. Nevertheless, Mandanda’s experience and availability could make him a pragmatic choice for the Italian giants.
Should Mandanda depart, Marseille will be forced to confront the prospect of life without their influential number one. Brice Samba, once viewed as a natural successor, has yet to fully convince the club’s hierarchy that he is ready to take on the responsibilities of a first-choice keeper in Ligue 1.
As a result, OM are believed to be exploring external options. One name beginning to circulate is Mexican international Guillermo Ochoa, who has impressed in recent seasons and could be a viable candidate to fill the void.
Mandanda, affectionately nicknamed “El Phénoméno” by supporters, has been a mainstay at Marseille since 2007 and has amassed over 300 appearances for the club. His potential departure would mark the end of an era at the Vélodrome and leave a significant gap both on and off the pitch.
With the transfer window approaching, OM must now prepare for a possible reshuffle between the posts, while Milan’s search for a reliable goalkeeper could lead them to France’s south coast.
