Luiz Felipe (foto: Getty Images)
Olympique de Marseille have reached an agreement with Luiz Felipe, who joins as a free agent after terminating his contract with Al-Ittihad.
Luiz Felipe, a 27-year-old Italy international, is set to strengthen Olympique de Marseille's defense following his release from Saudi Pro League side Al-Ittihad. The former Lazio and Real Betis centre-back will arrive in Marseille on Monday, just after Les Phocéens' Ligue 1 clash with Le Havre, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.
The Brazilian-born defender is expected to sign a contract with Marseille that runs until 2026, marking a significant addition to Roberto De Zerbi's squad as they aim to solidify their backline. Luiz Felipe's availability came after his September 2023 move to Al-Ittihad in a €22 million deal ended prematurely.
The signing comes at a crucial time for Marseille, whose defensive frailties have forced De Zerbi to rely on makeshift solutions, such as deploying Geoffrey Kondogbia in central defense. Additionally, summer signing Lilian Brassier has struggled to make an impact, prompting the need for reinforcements.
Luiz Felipe becomes Marseille's first winter transfer, following a trend of Ligue 1 clubs securing talent from the Saudi Pro League, with Rennes recently acquiring Seko Fofana.