Olympique de Marseille (OM) is actively pursuing new talent as they navigate the complexities of the summer transfer window. Amid the ongoing discussions surrounding Ligue 1 TV rights, which will significantly influence their transfer budget, the club is making strategic moves to bolster their defense. According to sources from L’Equipe, an agreement has been reached with Lilian Brassier, a Togolese-origin center-back who recently had an impressive season with Brest. Negotiations are now focused on finalizing the transfer fee with Brest.
OM is in advanced discussions with Malian international Moussa Diarra.
The 23-year-old, whose contract with Toulouse expires on June 30, offers a valuable opportunity for OM as he would join the team on a free transfer.
Known for his versatility, Diarra can play both as a central defender and on the left side of the defense, making him an attractive option for OM’s defensive lineup.
Diarra has had a noteworthy season, participating in 31 matches, with 23 starts, scoring one goal, and providing two assists.
His consistent performance has caught the eye of OM’s management, who are keen to integrate him into their squad.
If the negotiations succeed, Diarra will join a growing contingent of African players at OM, including Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang (Gabon), Simon Ngapandouetnbu and Faris Moumbagna (Cameroon), Geoffrey Kondogbia (Central African Republic), Azzedine Ounahi and Amine Harit (Morocco), Chancel Mbemba (DRC), and Senegalese players Iliman Ndiaye and Ismaïla Sarr. This comes as midfielders Pape Gueye and Jean Onana prepare to depart at the end of their contracts.
Since turning professional in 2019, Moussa Diarra has established himself as a key player for Toulouse FC (TFC).
He was instrumental in TFC’s Coupe de France victory last year and has accumulated 109 appearances, contributing one goal and six assists.
His international career with Mali began in 2022, and he has since earned three caps with the national team, the Eagles.
Diarra’s potential move to OM would not only reinforce their defensive options but also add depth and versatility to the squad.
His ability to adapt to multiple defensive roles makes him a strategic acquisition for the club as they aim to strengthen their roster for the upcoming season.
As OM navigates the complexities of the transfer market and awaits clarity on their budget, securing talents like Moussa Diarra could prove pivotal.
With his proven track record at both club and international levels, Diarra represents a promising addition to OM’s defensive lineup.
The club’s proactive approach in engaging with such prospects underscores their commitment to enhancing their squad and competing at the highest levels in the upcoming season.
🔹L’OM discute avec Moussa Diarra 🇲🇱, défenseur central gaucher qui arrive libre de tout contrat. Le latéral droit de Rennes Lorenz Assignon 🇫🇷 est également sur les tablettes du club qui voit en lui le successeur de Jonathan Clauss.
(@lequipe) #MercatOM #TeamOM pic.twitter.com/hVRAln8s8r
— Infos OM (@InfosOM_) June 20, 2024