- Sunderland have had an offer for Igor Paixão (26) turned down by Marseille, with talks between the clubs still continuing
- Quinten Timber is very close to a move to Crystal Palace
- Marseille will visit AS Monaco on Sunday night, but Timber may no longer be at the club by then
Marseille Facing Transfer Pressure Amid Financial Strain
Marseille are dealing with strong Premier League interest in two players they would ideally prefer to keep, as Igor Paixão and Quinten Timber both attract attention from English clubs.
Sunderland have already seen a bid for Paixão rejected by Marseille, though negotiations between the clubs remain active. La Provence reports that there has been more than one offer, with the most recent proposal valued at €30m.
Marseille’s preference is to retain Paixão, who arrived one year ago and has performed strongly on the left side of the attack. He has also continued to look sharp during pre-season. With Mason Greenwood gone, Paixão appeared set to take on a leading role in OM’s forward line, while also becoming one of the players most likely to attract a major offer.
🚨🔴⚪️ Sunderland have reached verbal agreement on personal terms with Igor Paixão.
Negotiations ongoing with Olympique Marseille as clubs are talking.
The initial proposal has been rejected by OM but deal still on — follows @SkySports_Keith. pic.twitter.com/s3cYeJmkcu
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 26, 2026
Timber Edges Closer to Crystal Palace Switch
Quinten Timber is nearing a transfer to Crystal Palace. The Netherlands international only joined Marseille in January, arriving from Feyenoord in a deal worth €4.5m.
The 25-year-old versatile midfielder quickly made an impact at OM and established himself as an important player. Marseille had also hoped to keep him this summer, but the club’s financial position means they are not currently able to resist approaches for players across the squad.
Timber missed Marseille’s opening match against Strasbourg because of suspension, but he has trained with his team-mates this week. However, with OM due to visit AS Monaco on Sunday night, there is a possibility that he may have left the club before that fixture takes place.
More Departures Expected Before the Window Closes
Further exits are expected at Marseille before the transfer window shuts. Paixão is drawing significant Premier League interest, while Timber’s potential move to Crystal Palace appears to be at an advanced stage.
