Olympique de Marseille appears to be turning its attention to Serie A as it looks to strengthen its midfield for the upcoming season, with AS Roma’s French international Steven N’Zonzi emerging as a key target. The 30-year-old midfielder, who has struggled to establish himself as indispensable at the Italian club, seems increasingly likely to depart Rome this summer.
Signed by Roma for €30 million, N’Zonzi is reportedly available for around €22 million, according to Calciomercato. Under contract until 2022, the former Sevilla player earns an annual salary of €3 million. While he has featured regularly this season, appearing in 34 matches across all competitions, his role has been more rotational than central. His contributions include one goal and two assists, reflecting a season of solid, if unspectacular, performances in Serie A.
Marseille is reportedly monitoring N’Zonzi closely, along with other clubs such as AS Monaco and Arsenal. The Ligue 1 side may have an advantage in negotiations thanks to Rudi Garcia, the former Roma coach, whose familiarity with the player could smooth discussions and facilitate a potential transfer. N’Zonzi’s experience, physical presence, and versatility in midfield would make him a valuable addition to Marseille’s squad as the club seeks to reinforce its depth and stability in the middle of the park.
Despite Marseille’s interest, several factors complicate a potential move. Reports from the Daily Mail indicate that Arsenal are prepared to offer €26 million for the French international during the summer transfer window. This higher bid could make it challenging for Marseille to secure the player, particularly since strengthening the midfield does not appear to be the club’s immediate priority. The presence of other midfield targets and budget considerations may limit Marseille’s willingness to engage in a competitive transfer battle for N’Zonzi.
Corriere dello Sport further confirms that N’Zonzi, signed under the direction of Roma’s sporting director Monchi, has been officially placed on the transfer list. This suggests that Roma are open to negotiating his departure, making a move feasible for any club able to meet their financial expectations. The midfielder’s experience in top-flight European football, combined with his physicality and ability to break up play, makes him an attractive option for teams seeking a proven defensive midfielder capable of adding solidity to their midfield.
For Marseille, acquiring N’Zonzi would bring experience and leadership to a squad looking to compete on multiple fronts. His ability to shield the defense, dictate tempo, and contribute to transitions could provide Rudi Garcia with tactical flexibility and reinforce the team’s midfield structure. However, the club will need to weigh the cost and strategic fit of such a transfer, particularly if other priorities are higher on the agenda.
As the summer transfer window approaches, N’Zonzi’s situation will continue to attract attention from Ligue 1, Premier League, and Serie A clubs alike. Whether he ends up in Marseille, London, or elsewhere, the midfielder’s departure from Roma appears increasingly likely, signaling a fresh chapter in the career of a player with significant European experience and international credentials.
In conclusion, while Marseille has expressed interest in N’Zonzi, financial considerations, competition from other clubs, and squad priorities will ultimately determine whether the French international can make the move to Ligue 1 this summer.
