After a turbulent chapter, the partnership between Olympique de Marseille (OM) and Argentine defender Leonardo Balerdi is nearing its conclusion—but the final act is unfolding amid financial strain for the French club. A surprising twist has emerged, revealing a rejected seven-figure offer that has left the Olympians counting their losses.
World Cup dream dashed, Marseille’s plans crumble
The OM hierarchy had strategically planned Balerdi’s exit around the 2026 World Cup, banking on his potential starring role for Argentina to boost his market value. However, fate intervened just before the tournament’s announcement. A severe calf injury sidelined the 27-year-old, forcing him to withdraw from the squad and derailing Marseille’s carefully laid financial recovery strategy.
Leverkusen’s €25M offer rejected by the player
The setback is all the more painful because Marseille had already secured a €25-million lifeline—complete with achievable performance bonuses—from Bayer Leverkusen this past spring. Yet, despite the lucrative deal on the table, Balerdi personally vetoed the move, reportedly reluctant to return to the Bundesliga after his earlier stint with Borussia Dortmund.
Market value plummets, OM forced to slash expectations
Between the rejected bid and the World Cup withdrawal, Balerdi’s stock took a severe hit. With the transfer market moving fast and Marseille’s budget under pressure, the club had no choice but to drastically lower its asking price. Now, the Phocéens are left hoping for a €15-million deal—a €10-million drop in value that underscores the financial blow to the club’s ambitions.