Ligue 1 powerhouse Olympique Marseille have taken a genuine interest in Atalanta full-back Joakim Maehle to address their defensive shortcomings. According to Gazzetta dello Sport, the French side could soon launch an assault on the ex-Genk man.
Marseille had realistic hopes of landing Maehle three years ago, but Atalanta beat them to his signature. During his decent career in Bergamo, the 26-year-old has established himself as one of Gian Piero Gasperini’s most trusted allies. Capable of playing on both flanks, the Denmark international remains a significant first-team cog at the Gewiss Stadium.
However, after landing Sead Kolasinac and Mitchel Bakker, Atalanta could consider selling Maehle for the right offer. The Dane has an estimated market price of €15 million. That’s probably the tag Marseille will have to pay to convince La Dea to sanction a deal.
New manager Marcelino is keen to revamp his full-back options. Marseille couldn’t tie Nuno Tavares to a permanent contract this summer. The 23-year-old went from strength to strength during his season-long loan from Arsenal in 2022/23. But Mikel Arteta refused to include a buyout clause in his temporary transfer to Ligue 1.
In addition to Tavares’ departure, Marseille also lost Kolasinac to Atalanta. Renan Lodi has joined forces with Marcelino’s side, leaving Atletico Madrid permanently following a decent loan spell at Nottingham Forest last term. The Brazilian alone won’t be enough to cover the losses.
That’s where Maehle comes in. Yet Atalanta won’t sell their first-team star unless a satisfying bid arrives at their desk.
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