Olympique de Marseille have identified Nigerian international Jordan Torunarigha as a key defensive target for the upcoming transfer window, with the KAA Gent centre-back nearing the end of his contract.
The 27-year-old is reportedly not planning to extend his stay in Belgium, leaving him poised to depart Gent as a free agent this summer.
Sources cited by Completesports.com and Berliner Kurier indicate that the Ligue 1 outfit has placed Torunarigha high on their list of summer reinforcements, as they look to revamp their backline.
Torunarigha, who joined Gent in 2022 following a long spell at Bundesliga side Hertha Berlin, has become an integral figure in Danijel Milicevic’s squad.
Since making the switch to Belgium, the defender has featured in 98 league matches for the Buffalos, establishing himself as one of the most reliable centre-backs in the Jupiler Pro League.
While Gent were keen to tie him down to a new deal, the player’s reluctance to commit long-term has sparked interest from clubs across Europe.
Marseille, eager to strengthen their defensive ranks ahead of next season, have now emerged as strong contenders to secure his signature.
The French side’s pursuit of Torunarigha marks a renewed attempt to shore up a backline that has shown vulnerability over the course of the campaign.
With uncertainty surrounding the futures of several defenders at the club, the addition of an experienced figure like Torunarigha who offers both physicality and composure—could prove a timely boost.
Although the Nigerian had been linked with a return to Germany during the previous summer window, including reported interest from former Bundesliga rivals, he opted to remain with Gent. English clubs such as Crystal Palace and Leeds United were also mentioned as potential suitors ahead of the current campaign, but no deal materialised.
Now, with his contract winding down and interest reigniting, Marseille see an opportunity to land a quality defender without a transfer fee an increasingly important factor given the financial pressures many clubs are facing.
His profile aligns with the demands of Ligue 1: athletic, experienced, and tactically sound.
Torunarigha, who has represented Nigeria at international level, brings not only European pedigree but also versatility. Known for his ability to read the game and play out from the back, he would add a valuable dimension to Marseille’s defensive options.
As the summer window approaches, the race for his signature is expected to intensify. While Marseille appear to be leading the chase for now, they may yet face competition should other clubs rekindle their interest in the coming weeks.
For Torunarigha, the decision will likely hinge on playing opportunities, European football prospects, and long-term ambitions.
But with Olympique de Marseille showing clear intent, the stage may be set for the Nigerian defender to make a high-profile move to the south of France.
