OM eye return for goalkeeper Simon Ngapandouetnbu

Marseille are exploring the possibility of bringing back Simon Ngapandouetnbu as a longer-term option in goal. The 23-year-old left the club for Montpellier as a free agent and has since established himself as one of the leading goalkeepers in Ligue 2.

Ngapandouetnbu has conceded five goals in nine league appearances this season, helping Montpellier build the division’s strongest defence. His performances have also earned him recognition with Cameroon, where he is now an international. Marseille negotiated a buy-back clause when he moved to Montpellier, leaving the club with a possible route to re-sign him.

The idea is being considered for next summer rather than the immediate winter window. Marseille’s financial restrictions under the DNCG are expected to limit their ability to add players, despite the club having completed several sales. That situation means Bruno Genesio is likely to continue with his current squad for now.

Jeffrey de Lange has taken over as Marseille’s first-choice goalkeeper since Geronimo Rulli’s departure and has performed adequately. The Dutchman is not viewed as the club’s long-term answer, however. Marseille have improved recently with successive Ligue 1 victories at Troyes and Angers, but their recruitment planning is already looking beyond the winter market, with Ngapandouetnbu among the options under consideration.