Olympique Marseille have moved to the front of the queue for Verona defender Rafik Belghali after submitting a €13m package offer for the Algeria international. The Ligue 1 side have proposed taking the 24-year-old on loan with an obligation to buy, with the total fee falling only marginally short of Verona’s €15m asking price.
The bid comes despite reported interest from Serie A heavyweights Inter and Roma, who had identified Belghali as an affordable option to strengthen their defensive ranks. Marseille’s formal approach now threatens to derail any potential switch to Italy’s top flight.
Rapid rise in value
Belghali’s potential departure would deliver a substantial financial return for Verona, who invested just €2m to sign him from Belgian side KV Mechelen last summer. The right-back has since established himself as a regular starter, scoring twice in 26 Serie A appearances during a difficult campaign that ended in relegation for the Gialloblu.
The defender also enhanced his reputation on the international stage with notable performances for Algeria at the 2026 World Cup, further justifying the sharp increase in his market value over the past twelve months.
Deal structure and next steps
The proposed arrangement would see Belghali join Marseille initially on loan, with the transfer becoming permanent at the campaign’s conclusion. This structure aligns closely with Verona’s valuation and suggests a compromise could be reached swiftly.
While Inter and Roma had monitored the situation, neither club had reportedly tabled a formal bid matching Marseille’s commitment. Verona now face a decision on whether to accept the French club’s proposal or hold out for their full asking price as they prepare for life in the second tier.