Marseille have reportedly reached a full agreement with Manchester United to secure the signing of Eric Bailly on loan for the rest of the season.
According to reputed journalist and transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Olympique Marseille and Manchester United have reached a total agreement over a loan move for Eric Bailly, who could now be on his way to France. The update does mention that the Ivorian and his agents are still in talks over his personal terms, following which a deal can be completed.
Bailly has been with Manchester United since 2016 but has never been able to become a regular first-team member at Old Trafford. The 28-year-old has played just a little over 100 games for the Red Devils despite having been at the club for more than six years now. Of those, only seven came in the last season.
So, even though he showed some form in the pre-season, it was always likely that he would be departing Old Trafford in search of regular game-time. Several clubs, including AS Roma, coached by former Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho, have been linked.
But, as per the report, Bailly could end up signing for Marseille. The Ligue 1 giants are among the many clubs being linked with the 28-year-old Ivorian as they seek to add more quality and experience to their roster ahead of a run in the UEFA Champions League this season.
Eric Bailly deal update. Olympique Marseille have full agreement with Man United on loan deal since Friday, it will also include a mandatory buy option clause to be activated if OM will qualify to UCL. ?? #OM
Deal now depends on player/agents, personal terms still discussed. pic.twitter.com/RinADjO8mO
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 21, 2022
So, despite having brought in Chancel Mbemba and Isaak Toure, Marseille remain intent on adding another centre-half before the window closes. According to Fabrizio Romano, the Ligue 1 club are now close to landing Bailly from Manchester United after reaching an agreement with Manchester United.
The Italian reports that the two clubs have had an agreement over the loan move since Friday. As part of the terms, Marseille will be signing Bailly on loan, with an obligation to make his transfer permanent should they qualify for the UEFA Champions League again next season.
Romano also adds that agreement over personal terms with the player is yet to be completed and talks over the same are ongoing. Given Bailly’s desire to leave, finalising the wages and other aspects of his stay in France could be completed imminently.
