Olympique de Marseille is reportedly prioritizing Nigerian international Bright Osayi-Samuel as a key target for the upcoming January transfer window. The versatile right-back, currently playing for Turkish giants Fenerbahçe, could be on his way to the French Ligue 1 as Marseille seeks to strengthen its defensive line. Turkish outlet *Takvim* has reported Marseille’s strong interest, with coach Roberto De Zerbi identifying the 26-year-old as a primary candidate to join the squad this winter.
Osayi-Samuel, who has been capped 18 times for Nigeria, is in the final stretch of his contract with Fenerbahçe, which is set to expire in June.
Negotiations for an extension have stalled, reportedly due to a disagreement over salary.
Fenerbahçe has offered the player an annual salary of €1.5 million, but Osayi-Samuel is holding out for an additional €1 million.
The unresolved contract situation presents Marseille with a potential opening to secure his services before he becomes a free agent next summer.
With his contract expiring, the player could attract a competitive market, as several other clubs, including Turkish rivals Galatasaray and teams in the Premier League, are also reportedly monitoring the situation.
Osayi-Samuel’s arrival would address a key need for Marseille, where De Zerbi has rotated players at right-back, notably Amir Murillo and Pol Lirola, without finding a consistent solution.
The Nigerian defender’s experience and adaptability make him a particularly appealing choice for Marseille, which seeks to boost its defensive depth for the second half of the season.
Known for his speed, physicality, and attacking instincts, Osayi-Samuel’s style aligns well with the fast-paced and physically demanding French league, making him an attractive option as Marseille aims to climb the Ligue 1 standings.
While Osayi-Samuel has encountered some setbacks this season due to injury, missing two months of competition, his performance last season showcased his resilience and skill.
In the 2022-2023 season, he made 39 appearances for Fenerbahçe, recording four goals and six assists across all competitions.
His strong form earned him a spot in Nigeria’s squad for the Africa Cup of Nations, where he played a prominent role, starting in the semi-final against South Africa and later appearing in the final against Ivory Coast.
If a move to Marseille materializes, Osayi-Samuel would bring valuable experience from both the English and Turkish leagues.
Starting his career with Blackpool, he later gained prominence with Queens Park Rangers in the Championship before moving to Turkey.
His journey through various leagues has refined his tactical awareness and versatility, making him a compelling candidate for the French side.
As the January transfer window approaches, Marseille’s pursuit of Osayi-Samuel reflects the club’s ambition to strengthen its squad and enhance its defensive options.
Whether or not a deal will be reached remains to be seen, but the 26-year-old’s unresolved contract negotiations with Fenerbahçe present an opportunity that Marseille will be keen to exploit.
