Algerian international and standout player Saeid Benrahma has ignited a fierce competition between two prominent French football clubs as the winter transfer window approaches.
According to “L’Équipe,” Olympique de Marseille is set to enter the race against Olympique Lyonnais to secure the signing of Benrahma from West Ham United at the beginning of the new year.
The newspaper had previously indicated Lyon’s desire to make strong signings to help them escape the specter of relegation.
“Marseille aims to recruit an attacking winger to compensate for the absence of Ismaïla Sarr, Amin Harit, and Iliman Ndiaye during their participation in the Africa Cup of Nations,” highlighted the report.
It further noted that Marseille’s coaching staff is reluctant to take risks with Bouna Sarr, even after his recovery from an injury that kept him away from the pitch for an extended period.
“Marseille is torn between Benrahma and Suso, the winger from Sevilla, but currently leans more towards the Algerian star,” the report continued.
As the first half of the French league concluded, Marseille sits in sixth place with 27 points after 17 rounds, trailing league leaders Paris Saint-Germain by 13 points.
On the other hand, Lyon finds itself in 15th place with 16 points, just two points ahead of teams threatened with relegation.
The battle for Benrahma’s signature adds an extra layer of intrigue to the French football landscape as the winter transfer window looms closer.
