During the last summer transfer window, OM tried numerous avenues. Talents that Roberto De Zerbi could come back to and try, a second time, to bring them to Marseille in January…
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1 – Emmanuel Dennis
Emmanuel Dennis, the versatile Nottingham Forest striker, has long been followed by OM for his explosive profile and his versatility in attack. The Nigerian international is renowned for his speed, dribbling skills and ability to play both up front and in support of the striker. This summer, discussions took place between the Marseille leaders and those of Nottingham Forest, but the demands of the English club complicated the negotiations, and OM were unable to conclude the deal. However, Nottingham may be more open to Dennis leaving this winter, especially if his playing situation remains limited in the Premier League. A loan option could also be considered to reduce the cost of the operation. Dennis could then offer real added value to the Marseille attack by bringing percussion and speed, qualities sometimes absent in the Marseille game.
2 – Ilya Zabarnyi
OM were also very interested in Ilya Zabarnyi, the young Ukrainian central defender from Bournemouth. At just 21 years old, Zabarnyi already has solid experience in the Premier League and the Ukrainian national team, where he is renowned for his defensive solidity and his ability to restart cleanly. Although OM initially wanted a loan with an option to buy, Bournemouth preferred to keep their young talent or consider a sale only if a substantial offer was made. The Marseillais could, however, reactivate this track in January, especially since Zabarnyi could benefit from more playing time in a project where he would be more at the center of priorities. In a position at Roberto De Zerbi sometimes lacks solutions, calling Hojbjerg or Kondogbia to the rescue, a new asset in the axis would not be too much.
3 – Mercy of the King
English attacking midfielder Eberechi Eze, who plays for Crystal Palace, is also one of the players followed by OM since this summer. Known for his vision of the game, his technique and his ability to break the lines, Eze could give new impetus to the Marseille midfielder. Discussions progressed well this summer, but the price asked by Crystal Palace ultimately slowed down the Olympian club. However, with a contract that runs until 2025, Crystal Palace could be more flexible this winter if the player does not extend and transfer prospects emerge. Eze would be an ideal option to strengthen Marseille's creativity, particularly against grouped defenses, and could provide the technical touch that is sometimes lacking in the final meters.
