The winter transfer window has not yet opened its doors and Olympique de Marseille is already in full swing. The recruitment unit, led by the Longoria-Benatia duo, is multiplying avenues to strengthen Roberto De Zerbi’s squad. And once again, it is towards Turkey that all eyes are turned. The Marseille recruiters were seen during the heated Istanbul derby to supervise a player followed for a long time, whose performance that evening only confirmed all the good things that were thought of him.
A Turkish international to strengthen the midfield
This player is İsmail Yüksek. The Fenerbahçe midfielder, a 28-time Turkish international, shone during his team’s victory against Besiktas (3-2), even scoring his first goal of the season. Versatile, capable of playing as a sentry as well as a relay player, his profile corresponds perfectly to what OM is looking for to densify its environment, especially in the event of the departure of Geoffrey Kondogbia. Marseille’s already long-standing interest was spectacularly reactivated by this high-level performance.
In the minds of the leaders, the idea is clear: OM wants to find its Arda Güler, named after this nugget trained at Fenerbahçe who shines today in the colors of Real Madrid. The Turkish club is a pool of talent and Marseille hopes to find the player capable of taking their midfield to the next level. But the specter of another Turkish player hovers over the Commandery. That of Cengiz Ünder, who arrived with a fine reputation but whose passage left a taste of unfinished business. The bet is attractive, but it is not without risk.
Caution remains in order
Especially since the file is far from simple. If the player’s value, estimated at 11 million euros, seems affordable for Marseille’s finances, the competition is tough. Olympique Lyonnais, Benfica and especially Atlético Madrid are also positioned. Marseille will have to be very convincing to win the bet. It will take more than just interest to make such an operation a reality in January.
And then, you should never put the cart before the horse, especially when it comes to a Turkish track at OM. The oldest supporters still remember the Servet Çetin file, announced as closed by numerous media before never materializing. The interest in İsmail Yüksek is very real, but the road to signing a contract is still long and fraught with pitfalls.
