Marseille's Balerdi set for summer exit as club looks to cash in
Olympique de Marseille defender Leonardo Balerdi is set to leave the club this summer, according to a report from Foot Mercato. The Argentine centre-back, who has been with the club since 2021, is reportedly available for a fee in the region of 30 million euros. The 25-year-old, who previously played for Boca Juniors and Borussia Dortmund, has been a key figure at the Stade Vélodrome, even captaining the side earlier in the season. However, under new manager Jean-Louis Gasset, the 25-year-old has recently been stripped of the armband and, according to the French outlet, a summer departure has now been agreed in principle between the club and the player.
The Argentine international, who joined Marseille in 2021, has made over 100 appearances for the club. His departure would mark the end of a three-and-a-half-year stint in the south of France, where he has developed into a key defensive asset. The reported 30 million euro price tag reflects his status as a mainstay in the team and a regular for the Argentine national team. With two years remaining on his current contract, Marseille are in a strong negotiating position to command a significant fee for his services.
According to Foot Mercato, the decision for a summer separation has been made, with the club hoping a strong showing at the upcoming Copa America with Argentina could further increase his market value. This strategy suggests Marseille is looking to maximize the financial return on a player they signed for a reported 11 million euros from Borussia Dortmund. The club is reportedly in a strong negotiating position, but having already agreed to a separation, they may be forced to sell if a suitable offer arrives to avoid an awkward situation for all parties involved.
Balerdi's potential exit is part of a wider period of transition for Marseille, who are looking to rebuild under a new sporting project. The potential 30 million euro windfall from his sale would provide significant funds for the club's summer rebuild. For Balerdi, a move would represent a chance for a new challenge, with clubs across Europe's top leagues likely to be monitoring the situation. The 25-year-old's next move will be a crucial step in a career that has seen him rise through the ranks at Boca Juniors, make a high-profile move to Borussia Dortmund, and establish himself as a Ligue 1 and international regular.
