OM centre-backs in flux as Facundo Medina nears Leverkusen, Leonardo Balerdi weighs exit, Nayef Aguerd on his way out | OneFootball

Olympique de Marseille’s centre-back department is in flux, with Facundo Medina close to Bayer Leverkusen and Nayef Aguerd seen as on his way out, while Leonardo Balerdi could bring his six-year spell to a close. According to L'Équipe, the reshuffle is underway.

In the spring, Leverkusen, via football director Kim Falkenberg, worked on a deal to recruit Balerdi for the 2026-2027 season. By late April the German club had tabled an offer that satisfied OM, about €25 million plus a further five million in bonuses.

Balerdi paused, mindful of a difficult early stint at Dortmund before OM picked him up in summer 2020. He told the hierarchy he wanted to focus on the World Cup.

A calf injury during preparation forced him to withdraw, and he returned to training on Tuesday at La Commanderie. He has since told the club he wants a new challenge abroad after six intense years in Marseille.

With potential exits in play, defensive recruitment is being considered. An addition such as Jean-Clair Todibo, currently at West Ham, could follow if conditions are met.

Source: L'Équipe