Olympique de Marseille are considering a late move for Karl Toko-Ekambi, with the Cameroon international reportedly willing to accept a significantly reduced salary to return to France.
Marseille had not been planning to make another signing on Tuesday, according to the report, but the club’s hierarchy are now examining the possibility of bringing in the 33-year-old striker.
Toko-Ekambi is available as a free agent, meaning Marseille could complete a deal even after the official transfer window has closed. L’Equipe reports that preliminary contact has already taken place between the player’s representatives and members of the Marseille staff.
The forward is understood to be keen to return to the French league after his spell in Qatar. His readiness to accept a low wage would make the deal financially attractive to Marseille, who have been looking for a relatively inexpensive way to strengthen their attack and prepare for several possible departures.
Marseille’s interest has grown in recent days, with the club viewing Toko-Ekambi as an opportunity to add experience and depth to the squad without paying a transfer fee. The player also has an established relationship with manager Bruno Genesio, having worked with him during his time at Olympique Lyonnais.
That familiarity could help Marseille’s pursuit, although they may need to move quickly because there is competition for the striker’s signature. According to exclusive information from Africafoot, RS Berkane are also closely monitoring Toko-Ekambi’s situation.
Toko-Ekambi was born in Paris and came through the Paris FC academy. His current value is listed at €1.2m by Transfermarkt, although his free-agent status means a potential move would not involve a conventional transfer fee.
The proposed return would give Toko-Ekambi another opportunity to play in France after a career that has included spells with Paris FC, Sochaux, Angers, Villarreal and Olympique Lyonnais. He has also represented Cameroon at international level.
Marseille are due to play Paris FC in the third round of the French championship very soon. According to the betting company 1xbet, Marseille are priced at 1.70 to win, with the draw at 3.90 and a Paris FC victory at 4.10.
The possible arrival of Toko-Ekambi would therefore represent a late addition to Genesio’s attacking options, but no agreement has yet been confirmed. With both Marseille and RS Berkane interested, the player’s desire to return to France could become a decisive factor in the next stage of negotiations.