The romance between Olympique de Marseille and Argentine defender Leonardo Balerdi is ending in financial disarray for the French club. As the player’s departure is finalized behind closed doors, a stunning revelation about a rejected seven-figure bid exposes the massive revenue shortfall hitting Marseille’s coffers.
The injury that shattered Marseille’s World Cup gamble
Marseille and Balerdi mutually agreed to part ways this summer, with the club banking on a high-profile World Cup 2026 showcase to maximize his market value. The plan hinged on the defender’s exposure in Argentina’s national team jersey to attract top-tier bids. But fate intervened with brutal efficiency: Balerdi suffered a severe calf injury just before the tournament, forcing him to withdraw and instantly derailing the club’s financial strategy.
Balerdi spurns Bayer Leverkusen’s €25m offer
The sting is deeper than anticipated. Marseille had already secured a golden opportunity in the spring when Bayer Leverkusen tabled a firm €25m bid, complete with easily achievable performance bonuses, to sign the former Borussia Dortmund defender. To everyone’s surprise, Balerdi himself vetoed the deal, citing reluctance to return to Bundesliga action.
A €10m valuation plummet in weeks
The defender’s decision and his World Cup withdrawal triggered an immediate valuation collapse. Aware of the market reality and the urgency to replenish club funds, Marseille drastically lowered its asking price. The club now accepts a mere €15m exit fee—a €10m haircut that stings in the current climate of financial strain on the Canebière.
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