OM reportedly identify Nakamura as Paixao replacement

Marseille have revived their interest in Reims winger Keito Nakamura as a possible replacement for Igor Paixao, whose future is being examined amid Sunderland’s interest. The move remains a reported possibility rather than a completed agreement, with Everton also believed to be ahead in the pursuit of the Japan international.

Nakamura, 26, had already attracted Marseille’s attention nearly two months ago. Reims were then seeking between €20 million and €25 million for the winger, a valuation that Marseille could not currently accommodate. The club now has only five days before the summer transfer window closes, leaving limited time to reshape the deal.

Marseille’s finances are central to the situation. Coach Bruno Genesio said after the 4-0 opening Ligue 1 win over Strasbourg that the club needed to sell at least three or four players before making further signings, in order to satisfy financial requirements set by the DNCG and UEFA. Paixao, signed from Rotterdam for €35 million a year ago, is among the players who could generate significant value.

Genesio would prefer to keep his squad intact, but Marseille’s sporting priorities are competing with the need for financial balance. Leonardo Balerdi, Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg, Quinten Timber, Nayef Aguerd, Timothy Weah and Amine Gouiri are also still at the club, meaning a Paixao departure would have to be followed by a rapid decision on whether Nakamura can be secured.