Olympique de Marseille are closing in on securing their first signing of 2025 with the arrival of free agent Luiz Felipe (27) after the Italian defender terminated his contract with Saudi Pro League side Al-Ittihad. After Fabrizio Romano reported earlier this week that the former Real Betis and Lazio centre-back was expected to sign a deal with Roberto De Zerbi’s side until 2026, the Felipe is expected to arrive today to finalise the move to Les Olympiens.

Foot Mercato journalist Sébastien Denis reports that Felipe is set to arrive in the Phocaean city late Monday morning with initial medical tests to take place this afternoon before the formal medical which has been scheduled for Tuesday morning. If all goes well, the Italian should be signing a contract which will run until 2026.

OM have been looking for a centre back to fill in after injuries and suspensions saw midfielder Geoffrey Kondogbia tested at the back. With summer signing Lilian Brassier failing to impress Roberto De Zerbi, the move adds a bit more depth to Marseille’s backline.

De Zerbi’s side dismantled Le Havre last night at the Vélodrome 5-1 in their return to action following the international break. With the three points, OM closed the gap to Paris Saint-Germain at the top of the table to seven points, whilst going two points ahead of AS Monaco in the table.

GFFN | George Boxall