News Focus
- Nabil Bentaleb will become a free agent when his LOSC Lille contract expires next June
- Both Olympique Lyonnais and Olympique de Marseille want to sign the Algerian midfielder
- Clubs from England, Turkey, Saudi Arabia and Qatar are also tracking his situation
- The 31-year-old made 37 appearances for Lille last season under manager Bruno Genesio
- Lille have offered him a new deal to stay and continue playing Champions League football
Two French giants are competing to sign Nabil Bentaleb on a free transfer. Olympique Lyonnais and Olympique de Marseille both hope to win the race for the Algerian international’s signature.
The 31-year-old midfielder will see his current deal with LOSC Lille run out at the end of the season. This means he can negotiate with foreign clubs from January onwards. His present employers have already tabled a contract extension to keep him at the club.
However, the prospect of a new challenge abroad appeals to the former Tottenham Hotspur player. Scouts from the Premier League, Turkey, Saudi Arabia and Qatar are all watching his progress closely.
This interest worries Lyon and Marseille. They view the Wazemmes-born star as a bargain addition to strengthen their midfield ranks without paying a transfer fee.
Bentaleb played a vital role for Bruno Genesio last term. He featured in 37 matches across all competitions, starting 22 times. He found the net twice and provided two assists for his teammates during the campaign.