Marseille reach agreement with Igor Paixão, but first offer refused by Feyenoord

Marseille have reached an agreement with Brazilian winger Igor Paixão (25), who has emerged as the club’s top priority to reinforce the left flank, according to Foot Mercato. The player has reportedly agreed to sign a five-year deal with Les Olympiens, according to a report from Fabrice Hawkins. Having seen Luis Henrique depart for Inter Milan, OM turned to a shortlist of left-wing options – including Dutch international Noa Lang, who was interested in a move but is now on the verge of joining Napoli.

Instead, Medhi Benatia and the Marseille recruitment staff have intensified their focus on Igor Paixão, who is coming off a standout season at Feyenoord. The Brazil international, who joined the Dutch side from Coritiba in 2022, registered an impressive 18 goals and 19 assists in all competitions last season. He also shone on the continental stage, contributing two goals and five assists in the Champions League.However, a deal with Feyenoord remains to be struck. Two bids from OM have been rejected, the latest of which was a loan-to-buy offer worth €24m. L’Équipe reported earlier today that Les Phocéens attempted a €28m initial offer. The Dutch champions are demanding €40m to part with a player under contract until 2029, and whose performances have also attracted interest from Bayer Leverkusen and several English clubs.Talks are ongoing, but with Paixão on board and pushing for the move, Marseille will hope to convince Feyenoord to soften their stance in the coming days.GFFN | George Boxall

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