Olivier Ntcham’s proposed return to Olympique de Marseille falls through

Olympique de Marseille have abandoned plans to bring Olivier Ntcham back to the club this summer after talks failed to produce an agreement, according to Foot Mercato.

The Ligue 1 side had considered signing the experienced Cameroon midfielder as they look for affordable ways to strengthen their squad. Financial constraints have limited the club’s options in the transfer market, prompting its recruitment team to examine players who could be available without a significant fee.

Ntcham was among the profiles assessed by the Marseille hierarchy. The 30-year-old already has previous experience with Olympique de Marseille, having spent the second half of the 2020-21 season at the club on loan. During that spell, which ran from February to June 2021, he made six appearances.

Despite discussions taking place between the player and the club, the negotiations did not lead to a deal. Ntcham will therefore not return to Marseille, bringing an end to the possibility of a second spell at the Stade Velodrome.

The midfielder has been without a club since 1 July, when his previous contract expired. He remains available on the transfer market after completing what was described as a solid campaign with Samsunspor in the Turkish Super Lig.

Ntcham joined Samsunspor in 2023 and played 34 matches during the most recent season. His performances have kept him on the radar of clubs looking for an experienced midfield option, but he has yet to secure a new contract since becoming a free agent.

Transfermarkt currently estimates the value of the Cameroon international at €2m. However, his availability as an unattached player means any interested club would not have to pay a transfer fee to sign him, although the financial terms of a potential contract would still need to be agreed.

The possibility of Ntcham returning to Olympique de Marseille emerged after another move involving the player failed to materialise in Greece. Africafoot had previously reported that development exclusively.

Marseille’s interest represented a possible solution for both parties: the club could have added an experienced midfielder while working within its financial limitations, and Ntcham could have returned to a team he represented earlier in his career. The talks, however, stopped short of an agreement.

As a result, Ntcham’s next destination remains undecided. For now, he is still available after his season with Samsunspor, while Olympique de Marseille must continue searching for affordable reinforcements elsewhere during the summer transfer window.