Le10Sport reports that Ligue 1 giants Marseille are lining up a loan move for Rangers star Alfredo Morelos.
The Gers striker has been the subject of continued interest from Lille across the summer but while the player reportedly agreed personal terms back in July [Sky Sports], the clubs have struggled to reach an agreement.
Colombian journalist, Yanjane Meneses G., claimed on Wednesday that a deal worth €20 million (approximately £18 million) had been finalised but this has not yet been verified and other clubs are in the running.
Brighton and Sevilla are amongst those previously credited with interest in the Colombia international [Foot Mercato] and now, Le10Sport claims that Marseille have joined the hunt.
Andre Villas-Boas’ side qualified for the Champions League after finishing second in the curtailed 2019/20 Ligue 1 season and are looking to strengthen ahead of the new campaign.
Yet, they are said to be short on funds to spend in this window and as a result, are only looking to take Morelos on loan.
The report suggests that Marseille have entered ‘very concrete discussions’ [translated] but that the situation is ‘complicated’ due to Rangers’ desire for a fee.
Marseille eye loan move for Morelos – Verdict
A move to Marseille might be appealing for El Bufalo, who, at this stage, clearly wants to leave Ibrox.
OM finished seven points clear of his other French suitors, Lille, last season and the prospect of Champions League football would be exciting for a player looking to test himself at the highest level.
Yet, there’s no way the Gers would entertain a simple loan deal. An obligation to buy would need to be included in the prospective transfer – as it was in the case of Ross McCrorie to Aberdeen – for the Rangers board to even consider sending Morelos to Marseille.
That transfer structure would still be far from ideal for the Gers though, who will be looking to land their valuation of £20m upfront, providing a big immediate financial boost and ensuring funds are there to reinvest in the squad before the window closes.
Marseille return to competitive action on Sunday night with a trip to Brest kicking-off their 2020/21 Ligue 1 campaign.
