Marseille’s move for Cameroon midfielder Olivier Ntcham breaks down

Olympique de Marseille’s attempt to re-sign Cameroon international Olivier Ntcham has collapsed after the two parties failed to reach an agreement, according to reports from France.

The Ligue 1 club had explored the possibility of bringing the 30-year-old midfielder back to the Stade Vélodrome, four years after his brief first spell with the southern French side.

However, negotiations failed to produce a deal, leaving Ntcham’s future unresolved just weeks before the start of the new season.

Marseille struggle in difficult transfer window

Marseille’s pursuit of Ntcham comes amid a challenging transfer window for the five-time European finalists, who are reportedly working under financial constraints.

Despite generating around €42.5 million through player sales and reducing their wage bill following the departures of Mason Greenwood and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, the club has struggled to convince several targets to join.

Ntcham, who is currently a free agent after leaving Turkish side Samsunspor in early July, was viewed as a potential low-cost addition to strengthen the midfield.

The former Celtic player spent part of the 2021 season at Marseille but made only six appearances before moving on.

Cameroon international remains available

With talks now at an end, Ntcham is expected to continue his search for a new club ahead of the upcoming campaign.

The midfielder has made 16 appearances for Cameroon, scoring once, and has built a career that has taken him through France, Scotland, England and Turkey.

Having become a free agent this summer, the former Indomitable Lions midfielder remains an attractive option for clubs looking to add experience without paying a transfer fee.

Time running out for Marseille

Marseille face mounting pressure to strengthen their squad, with the new Ligue 1 season due to begin in less than two weeks.

The collapse of the Ntcham deal raises further questions about the club’s recruitment strategy and its ability to attract players during a difficult summer in the transfer market.

For now, both Marseille and Ntcham must look elsewhere as they prepare for the start of the new campaign.