The powers that be at French giants Olympique Marseille have this week provided something of an indirect response to Atlético Madrid, regarding their interest in Leonardo Balerdi.
Amid their ongoing hunt for reinforcements at the back, the Atlético brass are long understood to have identified Argentine Balerdi as a leading target.
The 25-year-old was the subject of an initial approach on the part of the Rojiblancos during the winter transfer window, albeit with nothing having come of talks between the parties.
Nevertheless, he remains very much on the shortlist at the Wanda Metropolitano, with Diego Simeone and co. keen to bring in at least one new centre-half with a view to next season.
If the latest word stemming from France is anything to go by, however, then Balerdi looks altogether unlikely to be one such signing.
As per a report from Mundo Deportivo, citing L’Équipe, the Marseille hierarchy recently sent a contract renewal offer the way of their star stopper.
As much comes with OM absolutely desperate to keep hold of Balerdi, through the summer and beyond.
Conor Laird | GSFN
