Marseille centre-back Isaak Touré (20) is attracting interest from Ligue 1 rivals Lorient, according to a report this Thursday from L’Equipe. The Le Havre youth product joined Les Phocéens last year in a €5m deal. However, he was not part of former Marseille coach Igor Tudor’s plans and was allowed to spend the last 6 months of the past Ligue 1 campaign on loan with relegation-battlers Auxerre. Although the Yonne side dropped to the second-tier at the final moment, Touré further made a name for himself during that spell courtesy of his availability and his aerial ability.
The French publication understands that several mid-table Ligue 1 sides are keeping tabs on the gifted 20-year-old. FC Lorient have reportedly made strides in an attempt to sign Touré, with the latter said to be enticed at the prospect of joining Regis Le Bris’ side. L’Equipe adds that the player and his entourage have entered into talks with Les Merlus’ top-brass. Meanwhile, L’Equipe also reports that promoted Ligue 1 side FC Metz have sought information regarding the possibility of a loan deal.
Although Touré is Marseille’s fourth choice centre-back – behind Samuel Gigot, Chancel Mbemba and Leonardo Balerdi – Les Phocéens are reportedly keen to retain Touré. However, should Lorient and Metz confirm their interest in Touré, Marseille would favour a permanent move rather than a loan deal.
GFFN | Bastien Cheval
