Marseille push for DR Congo goalkeeper Matthieu Epolo

Olympique de Marseille are stepping up their efforts to sign Standard Liège goalkeeper Matthieu Epolo, with the Ligue 1 giants viewing the 21-year-old as a priority target, Get French Football News understands.

The DR Congo international has attracted significant interest during the transfer window, but Marseille’s pursuit is complicated by their financial situation. The French club must first generate funds through player sales before they can make a serious move for Epolo.

Marseille are not alone in monitoring the young goalkeeper. Another Ligue 1 club has made enquiries, while a Premier League side searching for a second-choice goalkeeper has also contacted Standard Liège about his availability.

Marseille need sales first

The situation has left Marseille’s transfer plans on hold as the club attempts to reduce its wage bill and create room for new arrivals.

Pierre-Emile Højbjerg is among the players Marseille are keen to move on, although the club are prepared to consider offers for virtually anyone in the squad as they look to raise funds.

Departures would give sporting director Grégory Lorenzi greater flexibility to reinforce the goalkeeping department, which has emerged as one of Marseille’s priorities.

Jeffrey de Lange started Friday night’s Ligue 1 match against RC Strasbourg Alsace, but his future at the club remains uncertain. His possible departure could leave Marseille needing to recruit one or even two goalkeepers before the window closes.

Standard demand €8m for Epolo

Standard Liège, meanwhile, have placed a significant valuation on their highly rated goalkeeper.

The Belgian club are currently seeking €8 million for Epolo, a figure that does not yet match Marseille’s valuation of the player. Negotiations could therefore prove difficult unless the French side can improve their financial position through sales.

Epolo’s age, international status and potential have made him an attractive proposition for clubs looking to secure a goalkeeper with room to develop.

Marseille’s interest is therefore expected to remain active, but their ability to turn that interest into a formal bid will depend heavily on their success in offloading players.

With two other clubs already making enquiries, the race for Epolo could intensify if Standard maintain their €8 million asking price.