Marseille Launch Loan Bid for Benjamin Pavard as Defensive Reinforcements Targeted

Olympique de Marseille have made an official offer to sign French defender Benjamin Pavard from Inter Milan on loan until June 2026, with an option to buy included. The proposed deal would see Marseille cover the player’s salary, and talks between the clubs are ongoing with the final decision now resting with Inter Milan.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Marseille are eager to strengthen their defence and have sent a formal bid to Inter for Pavard, whose future at the Italian club is uncertain. The Ligue 1 side have proposed a long-term loan with an option for a permanent move, alongside full salary coverage during his time in France. Inter, meanwhile, have just finalized an agreement to sign Manchester City’s Manuel Akanji as Pavard’s replacement, suggesting the Italian club may be ready to let the French international go. Marseille’s defensive struggles have been clear in the opening three games of the new Ligue 1 season, where they conceded five goals and collected just four points, sitting 12th in the standings as of now.

WHY THIS MOVE MATTERS

Pavard, 29, has significant top-level experience, having won the World Cup with France and Serie A with Inter. He played 32 league games last season and added Champions League experience as well. Bringing in a player of his calibre would mark a major coup for Marseille as they look to improve both experience and stability at the back. The move is part of a broader effort, with a deal already in place to sign Nayef Aguerd from West Ham, which Marseille hope will bring much-needed experience and stability to their defensive line. Inter’s willingness to offload Pavard is strengthened by securing Akanji, who agreed to a loan with a purchase clause based on appearances, as Inter looks to reclaim their Serie A title after finishing last season as champions and currently sitting at the top of Serie A.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR MARSEILLE AND PAVARD?

The final say now belongs to Inter Milan, who must decide if the loan proposal from Marseille suits their plans. Tottenham, Barcelona, and Manchester United are also monitoring the situation, as the player attracts widespread interest. Marseille’s next fixture is against Stade Rennais, currently 4th in Ligue 1 and already four points above OM. Marseille need points to climb the table and will hope new defensive signings arrive soon. Inter host Torino in their next Serie A match, defending their position at the top, with Juventus only two points behind in second place. Both clubs face decisive weeks as the transfer window closes and the season gathers pace.