Basic man of Igor Tudor at OM despite the criticism he has been the subject of, Leonardo Balerdi is a candidate for departure during the transfer window.
Despite the big doubts of the fans about his level of play, Leonardo Balerdi was an important starter in the eyes of Igor Tudor throughout the season at Olympique de Marseille. Systematically established by the Croatian technician in his three-man central defence, the Argentinian defender was even preferred to Eric Bailly or Chancel Mbemba during certain matches, choices which stunned the Olympian supporters.
The fact remains that Balerdi is a defender appreciated in Europe and beyond, the proof with his recent selection for the Argentina team. Last winter, Ajax Amsterdam were ready to offer between 15 and 20 million euros to recruit the Marseille defender, whose leaders had refused to part with Leonardo Balerdi during the season while the club was still engaged in European Cup.
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This summer, however, the situation will be different and the departure of the former Borussia Dortmund defender is hoped for by Pablo Longoria and Javier Ribalta. In its edition of the day, La Marseillaise reveals that the arrival of Marcelino is one more indication in favor of a departure of Leonardo Balerdi. Not that the Spanish coach does not appreciate the player, but his 4-4-2 system leaves only two places in central defense.
OM want to sell Balerdi this summer
In this position, OM already have Mbemba and Gigot in addition to Kolasinac and want to recruit a player (Saïss is targeted). Suffice to say that Leonardo Balerdi is too much and for Marseille, it is high time to sell him in order to recover his costs, after the recruitment of the player for a dozen million euros two years ago. It now remains to be seen whether clubs will come forward to recruit Leonardo Balerdi, and whether Ajax’s interest will still be relevant when the Dutch club has since completely changed its management team.
