Jean-Clair Todibo chooses Lens over Marseille move

Marseille have missed out on Jean-Clair Todibo, with the France international set to join Lens instead. The decision is another setback for coach Bruno Genesio, who arrived at the start of the summer expecting a more productive transfer window despite the club’s financial difficulties.

Todibo, who has two France caps, had emerged as Marseille’s preferred option to add experience to their defence. He had given the club a verbal agreement in mid-August, but the move changed direction. The West Ham defender is in Lens for a medical examination, and the proposed deal is a loan without a purchase option.

The switch leaves Marseille still needing defensive reinforcements while operating under tight financial conditions. The club sold Mason Greenwood to Fenerbahce but had to share much of that fee with Manchester United, his training club. Sales involving Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Geronimo Rulli brought little money, while Nayef Aguerd’s move to Real Sociedad collapsed. Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg has also refused to leave without having a say in his destination. With two days remaining in the window, Marseille must also resolve Igor Paixao’s situation, as Genesio wants to keep the Brazilian but a departure remains possible.