Bayer Leverkusen have opened negotiations with Olympique de Marseille for Argentina international Facundo Medina as they look to strengthen their defensive options ahead of the new season.
The 27-year-old, who featured for Argentina in the World Cup final, has become a primary target for the Bundesliga champions. Talks between the German and French clubs are already underway, though no agreement has been reached for the versatile defender.
Versatile defensive reinforcement
Medina offers valuable flexibility across the backline. He is capable of playing at centre-back but can also operate as a left-back, giving manager Xabi Alonso options in both central and wide defensive areas.
Despite only recently joining Marseille, the defender has quickly attracted attention following his performances at club and international level. His composure on the ball and defensive versatility align with Leverkusen’s tactical requirements as they prepare to defend their Bundesliga title.
The potential addition of Medina would provide crucial depth for Leverkusen, who face the challenge of competing on multiple fronts in the coming campaign. His experience at the highest level, including World Cup football, would bolster a squad looking to maintain its domestic dominance.
Right-side alternatives
Separately, Leverkusen continue to monitor KRC Genk full-back Zakaria El Ouahdi. The Moroccan international is under consideration as the club explores ways to strengthen the right side of their defence.
El Ouahdi has been on the club’s radar for some time and remains a realistic target should they decide to add another full-back before the transfer window closes. Unlike the Medina situation, this remains at the monitoring stage rather than active negotiation.
The Bundesliga champions are taking a thorough approach to their summer recruitment, assessing multiple options to ensure adequate cover across all defensive positions. With pre-season preparations underway, finalising these deals has become a priority for the club’s hierarchy.