Olympique de Marseille have officially confirmed the signing of Facundo Medina from RC Lens. The 25-year-old Argentinian defender joins the club on a season-long loan agreement that includes an option to make the transfer permanent. This move represents the third new player to arrive at the Vélodrome during the current summer transfer window.
Medina follows Angel Gomes and CJ Egan-Riley in joining the club. Manager Roberto De Zerbi is actively shaping his squad during his second season in charge. The team`s qualification for the UEFA Champions League necessitates strengthening the defence for the upcoming campaign.
Born in Villa Fiorito, Medina began his career in the youth academy at River Plate before making his senior debut for Talleres de Córdoba in 2018. His impressive development in Argentina soon caught the eye of European clubs, and RC Lens secured his signature in 2020 following their return to Ligue 1.
Over four seasons in Northern France, the left-footed defender established himself as a crucial figure in Franck Haise`s backline, featuring in 131 matches and netting 5 goals across all competitions. He played a vital role in Lens` remarkable second-place finish in the 2022/23 Ligue 1 season, a result that guaranteed their return to the Champions League. While at Lens, he also earned three international caps for the Argentina national team.
Medina arrived in Marseille on Tuesday afternoon, travelling from Spain where he had been carrying out personal pre-season preparations. He was greeted at Marignane airport by representatives from OM and a group of fans, who braved the summer heat to welcome the new signing.
Speaking to La Provence upon his arrival, Medina outlined his aspirations for his time at the club, stating, “I’m coming to OM to win titles.” He proudly wore a club scarf and was accompanied by his lawyer, Sevan Karian.
At Marseille, Medina will link up with compatriot and current team captain Leonardo Balerdi. The two Argentines could potentially form a new partnership at the heart of De Zerbi`s defence.
