Rafik Belghali: Marseille step up Hellas Verona talks as transfer reaches critical stage

Olympique de Marseille have intensified negotiations with Hellas Verona over right-back Rafik Belghali, with discussions now described as entering a decisive phase in the Ligue 1 club’s summer recruitment drive.

The 24-year-old, under contract with the Serie A side until 30 June 2029, has emerged as one of OM’s priority targets as they look to strengthen the right side of their defence ahead of the new season.

According to journalist Nicolo Schira, Marseille and Hellas Verona are in active talks over a deal that would initially see Belghali move on loan. The agreement being discussed includes an option to buy, which could become an obligation if certain, as yet unspecified, conditions are met.

Price gap remains between clubs

While the structure of the move is on the table, the two clubs are still some distance apart over the financial terms.

Hellas Verona are reported to be demanding between €13m and €15m to sanction Belghali’s departure. That valuation remains a key sticking point in negotiations, with Marseille seeking to bring the overall cost of the operation in line with their budget.

Belghali is currently valued at around €12m, and Marseille must now find a compromise with the Italian side if they are to push the transfer through and secure one of their main defensive targets.

Right-back signing a stated priority

This pursuit aligns with public comments made by Marseille head coach Bruno Genesio, who has made no secret of his desire to recruit a right-back during this transfer window.

In a press conference this week, Genesio underlined that bolstering the right side of his back line is among the club’s main priorities. He wants increased competition in that position and additional tactical options before the start of the season.

Within that context, Belghali’s profile is viewed internally as a strong fit for what Marseille’s hierarchy are seeking, even though an agreement has yet to be fully thrashed out.

No agreement yet as other clubs monitor situation

Despite progress in recent days, no deal has been finalised between Marseille, Hellas Verona and the player. All parties are continuing talks, and the coming days are expected to be pivotal in determining whether an accord can be reached.

Marseille must not only bridge the gap with Verona on the fee and purchase conditions, but also complete their discussions with Belghali himself if they are to bring the defender to the Stade Velodrome.

The situation is further complicated by interest from elsewhere. Inter Milan and AS Roma are also monitoring Belghali, while other unnamed clubs have expressed an interest, according to exclusive information reported by Africafoot.

For now, however, Marseille remain in direct contact with Hellas Verona as they attempt to convert their strong interest into a completed transfer and deliver on Genesio’s stated objective of reinforcing the right flank of his defence.