RC Lens is reportedly interested in acquiring the services of Olympique de Marseille`s 28-year-old centre-forward, Neal Maupay. This information comes via a report from Foot Mercato.
Maupay demonstrated his utility for Marseille at various points during the recent season, particularly before the arrival of Algerian international Amine Gouiri in January. Following Gouri`s integration into the squad, the forward, who has previously played for Premier League clubs like Brighton & Hove Albion and Everton, as well as Championship side Brentford, saw his opportunities become more limited in the latter half of the campaign.
Over the course of the season, he made 24 appearances, scoring four goals and providing four assists. Despite these contributions, Foot Mercato suggests that Maupay`s long-term future at the Vélodrome is uncertain, although he continues to attract interest from other clubs.
Lens`s interest in the French forward is significant. It is even suggested that Maupay could potentially be included as part of a deal that could see Lens defender Facundo Medina move in the opposite direction to Marseille. While reports indicate a standalone €20 million transfer for the Argentine defender is close to being agreed upon, Lens`s appreciation for Maupay means the forward could be used as a makeweight to facilitate a potential exchange or integrated deal.
