Liverpool Defender on Marseille Radar Amid Squad Shake-Up | OneFootball

Marseille Target Liverpool’s Kostas Tsimikas in Summer Rebuild

Foot Mercato have reported that Olympique de Marseille are looking to Liverpool for a potential reinforcement as their summer transfer plans evolve. Roberto De Zerbi’s side have endured a difficult start to their Ligue 1 campaign, losing to Rennes despite their opponents being reduced to ten men for more than an hour. The defeat has shaken the squad, and coupled with internal unrest, it has forced Marseille’s leadership into swift action.

Photo IMAGO

Turbulent Days at Marseille

The setback against Rennes was followed by dramatic scenes in the dressing room. Jonathan Rowe and Adrien Rabiot were involved in a violent altercation that left the club with little choice but to intervene. The board announced that both players had been removed from the squad and placed on the transfer list, with neither expected to wear Marseille colours again.

President Pablo Longoria and sporting director Medhi Benatia have since spoken out, stressing their commitment to restoring stability. Yet while addressing off-field issues, they must also ensure De Zerbi has the tools required on the pitch. That means strengthening key areas of the squad, with the left wing becoming a pressing concern.

Tsimikas Identified as Key Target

According to Foot Mercato, “OM is currently targeting Liverpool left-back Kóstas Tsimíkas.” The Greek international is seen as a player who can immediately slot into De Zerbi’s tactical system, bringing balance and attacking thrust down the flank.

Tsimikas, 29, has been a loyal squad player at Liverpool but has found his opportunities limited. “Robertson’s backup last season at the Reds, the Greek international (41 caps) is no longer in the English club’s plans,” Foot Mercato reported. With Andrew Robertson still holding down the starting role and summer signing Milos Kerkez arriving for around €50 million, Tsimikas has slipped down the pecking order.

Last season, he featured in 29 games across all competitions for Liverpool, but the sense is that he requires a new challenge to revitalise his career. Marseille believe they can offer him that platform, with De Zerbi particularly keen on a left-back who thrives in attack.

Photo: IMAGO

Opportunity for Marseille and Liverpool

For Marseille, Tsimikas represents both quality and availability. He has Champions League experience, a winning mentality and the ability to stretch defences with overlapping runs. For Liverpool, sanctioning his departure would not only clear space in the squad but also provide funds that could be reinvested elsewhere.

The challenge now is whether Marseille can convince Liverpool to part with a player who has been a reliable deputy, and whether Tsimikas himself sees Ligue 1 as the right next step in his career. If a deal can be struck, it could be one of the more astute signings of the summer for a club in urgent need of calm after chaos.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

For Liverpool, this potential move makes a lot of sense. Kostas Tsimikas has been a steady presence at Anfield since his arrival, but with the signing of Milos Kerkez and the continued dominance of Andy Robertson, his opportunities look limited going forward. For the player, at 29 years of age, this is likely the right time to seek a fresh start and guarantee regular football.

Supporters will always appreciate Tsimikas’ contributions. He was part of squads that lifted trophies, and his penalty against Chelsea in the 2022 FA Cup final remains a standout moment. Yet football is often about timing, and right now Liverpool appear ready to refresh their defensive options.

From Marseille’s point of view, this could be a coup. They would gain an experienced international defender with a strong attacking profile, perfect for De Zerbi’s dynamic system. Fans will naturally want Liverpool to ensure they are not left short in cover for Robertson, but if the deal brings in reasonable value, it could suit all parties.