Arsenal could now have the chance to sign Boubacar Kamara as Marseille President Pablo Longoria wants the midfielder gone this summer, according to Corriere dello Sport.
Kamara has rejected the Ligue 1 side’s offer of a new contract at the Stade Velodrome and has no interest in speaking with Longoria over new terms. The 21-year-old’s current deal will expire next summer, creating the opening for an emotional farewell for the OM product.
Longoria, however, does not want Kamara to stay at Marseille, only for him to leave for free in 11-months’ time. So, if he continues to refuse new contracts – and will not even discuss terms – the OM chief will look to sell and secure some compensation for the Frenchman.
Lazio are aware of Kamara’s situation after Sporting Director Igli Tare assessed a transfer for the £49,000-per-week technician. AC Milan, too, are working on an operation to take the U21 international to the Serie A. But both could face competition from Arsenal for Kamara.
Mikel Arteta feels Kamara is a valuable talent who can make an impact in Arsenal’s midfield or defence. The Marseille product dictates the rhythm of games, organises the engine room and recovers possession well. He is also a powerful but pacey presence in the holding role.
Arsenal could now hand Arteta his target by beating Lazio and Milan to a deal with Marseille for Kamara. OM boss Jorge Sampaoli has told his Ligue 1 side to offer clarity by solving the midfielder’s future soon. So, with Longoria’s wishes as well, a summer exit looks very likely.
Arsenal can sign a ‘phenomenon’ in Marseille midfielder Kamara
Arsenal are not the only English side with an interest in beating Milan and Lazio to a deal for Marseille product Kamara. The Mirror recently noted Newcastle are plotting a £15m swoop for the Frenchman, previously watched by Liverpool and Manchester City.
The most recent Premier League champions are not currently active in the Kamara market, however. And Arsenal beating Steve Bruce’s Magpies, to what could be a bargain, would see them hand Arteta a top-draw young talent who is still developing at 21 in the midfielder.
Former Marseille star Rolando also could not speak any higher of Kamara last year. He told RMC Sport: “This kid is a phenomenon. When he started training with us, he was 15-years-old. And from the first day, I said: ‘This little one is going to be a great player’.
“He’s the kind of centre-back that I love. He is full of qualities, and, above all, he works, he listens. It is out of the ordinary. I already told him: ‘In a few years, you will invite me to go see your matches for the France team and I can say that I played with you when you were 15-years-old’. I am sure and certain. He is very good, besides being a good person.”
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