Olympique de Marseille are preparing for a major summer rebuild, with experienced midfielder Geoffrey Kondogbia emerging as one of the leading candidates to leave the club.
The Ligue 1 side are reportedly under pressure to reduce their wage bill after missing out on qualification for the UEFA Champions League, and Kondogbia’s salary has placed him high on the list of potential departures.
According to reports from Media Foot, Sunderland AFC are actively working on a deal for the 33-year-old midfielder as they look to reinforce their squad ahead of the new season.
Discussions between the clubs and the player are believed to be progressing positively, with Sunderland eager to add experience and physical presence to their midfield.
Kondogbia is reportedly enthusiastic about the move because it would finally give him the opportunity to play in the Premier League for the first time in his career.
The former Atlético Madrid midfielder has previously featured in France, Spain and Italy, but a move to England has so far eluded him.
Marseille are also understood to be open to selling quickly if a suitable offer arrives. The midfielder is currently valued at around €4 million, and the French club hope a transfer could help ease financial pressure during what is expected to be a busy transfer window.
Kondogbia endured a relatively quiet season at Marseille, making 17 appearances across all competitions and registering one assist.
With Sunderland intensifying their interest and Marseille open to reshaping the squad, the coming weeks could prove decisive for the experienced midfielder’s future.
