Marseille: Balerdi could return after Roma loan

Marseille could face the return of Leonardo Balerdi next year after sending the Argentina international to Roma. The defender’s departure ended a difficult period at the French club, where his performances and leadership had drawn sustained criticism from a large section of the supporters.

Balerdi has moved to the Italian capital on loan, with Roma committed to a €20 million purchase if the agreement’s conditions are fulfilled. One key requirement is understood to be involvement in 70% of the matches. If that threshold is not reached, the expected permanent transfer could fail and Marseille would be left with the player back on its books.

That possibility is strengthened by Balerdi’s current situation at Roma. Competition in central defence has left him outside the established starting group for now, making regular appearances far from guaranteed. His fitness is another concern after a year affected by repeated physical problems.

The €20m figure would have provided important relief for Marseille, which is under financial pressure and facing scrutiny from the DNCG and UEFA. Instead, the club may still have to manage Balerdi’s future if he cannot secure enough playing time in Italy. The loan therefore offers Marseille a potential sale, but not yet a certain exit.