Olympique de Marseille navigates transfer market as Igor Paixão attracts Premier League interest

Olympique de Marseille is reshaping its summer transfer strategy under a new salary‑cap imposed by owner Frank McCourt, which limits wage spending and forces the club to prioritize cost‑effective signings.

Brazilian winger Igor Paixão, signed from Feyenoord for €30 million in 2025, has delivered 14 goals and 7 assists across all competitions. Marseille values him at €35 million and has set a minimum asking price of €50 million. Leeds United of the Premier League has placed Paixão on its shortlist and is reportedly prepared to offer between €30 million and €35 million, but no formal bid has been confirmed.

To replace the departing Mason Greenwood, Marseille have identified Algerian winger Ilan Kebbal, currently at Paris FC, as a target. Paris FC is asking €10 million for Kebbal, and the French club says an agreement in principle has been reached for a four‑year contract. These moves come as Marseille also evaluates the possible departure of other high‑profile players while trying to stay within its new financial limits.