Weah to Marseille: versatility over stardom in €15m switch | OneFootball

Timothy Weah appears to be on the verge of a move from Juventus to Marseille, with negotiations between the two clubs now in advanced stages, according to reports from Gazzetta dello Sport and Le10Sport. An agreement in principle has reportedly been reached for a €15 million transfer fee, which falls below his current market value of €17 million, as noted by MSN and Dicodusport. The final details are being ironed out, with both a permanent transfer and a loan with an obligation to buy under consideration, per CM Football.

Marseille have put a five-year contract on the table for Weah, running through to 2030, as reported by transfer expert Nicolò Schira. The American winger’s current deal with Juventus is set to expire in 2028, and does not contain a release clause.

Weah’s situation in Turin has become increasingly complex. During the 2024/25 season, he made 30 appearances (18 of them starts), scoring five goals and providing two assists across Serie A and the Champions League. Despite being naturally suited to more attacking roles, he was primarily used as a right back or wing back under Massimiliano Allegri. Juventus are open to his departure, as they look to reduce their wage bill and reinvest in other areas, according to Calcio Mercato.

Statistically, Weah’s recent campaign reflected his hybrid responsibilities. He averaged 0.3 goals and 0.12 assists per 90 minutes, with a pass accuracy of 82 percent and winning 53 percent of his duels, figures provided by FotMob. His market value, once peaking at €20 million, has declined in part due to inconsistent playing time.

There hasn’t been an official statement from Juventus, but Italian media confirm that negotiations are underway. On the Marseille side, sporting director Mehdi Benatia described Weah as a “versatile asset,” as reported by Le10Sport. Le Phocéen claims Weah himself is enthusiastic about the opportunity to join the Ligue 1 side.

From Marseille’s perspective, the search for a right-sided player was already a priority. The club needs competition for Amir Murillo at right back and Mason Greenwood on the right wing. Weah’s ability to fill several positions fits with the tactical demands at the Velodrome, and his polyvalence has been highlighted by CM Football.

The financial context shapes both clubs’ motivations. Juventus are under pressure to balance their books after missing out on the Champions League. Marseille, while budget-conscious, are supported by ambitious owners and see the €15 million fee as aligning with their current transfer strategy.

Fan response has been divided. Some Marseille supporters appreciate the versatility Weah could offer, while others question if he marks a true upgrade in quality. Meanwhile, Juventus fans have expressed frustration at seeing Weah used predominantly as a full back, rather than in his preferred advanced role.

Marseille are not without alternatives if the deal falls through. The club remains linked with Feyenoord’s Paixão and Porto’s Francisco Conceição, according to various sources.

Should the deal be completed, Marseille would add depth and tactical variety for European competition, while Juventus would free up an estimated €2.6 million per year in wages to target replacements, with Monaco’s Vanderson among those rumoured.

With a 90 percent probability of the transfer being completed, according to multiple sources, only minor formalities such as payment structure remain. Personal terms have reportedly already been agreed.

A side note to the transfer is the family connection: George Weah, Timothy’s father, had a brief spell at Marseille in 2000-01, a detail that carries some sentimental value among supporters. Competitive depth at right back and wing back, with the presence of players like Andrea Cambiaso and Danilo, has made Weah expendable in Turin.

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