Premier League duo West Ham United and Leicester City are reportedly keen on Marlon Santos – who has been on loan at Nice from Barca.
West Ham fans were rightly disgusted by the treatment of James Collins, the long-serving defender who was released after a decade of loyal service without ceremony or even a testimonial.
But at least supporters can take comfort in knowing that a club frequently accused of lacking ambition seem intent on replacing a 34-year-old with a far younger model.
It is understood that Marlon, who moved to the Camp Nou from Fluminense in 2016 but has made just two La Liga appearances since, faces an uncertain future at Barca. And, according to The Sun, Leicester City are also keen on the £18 million-rated former Brazil U20 ace.
And, speaking to Nice Martin, Nice president Jean-Pierre Riviere has confirmed that an £18 million offer has been made for Marlon. The talented centre-back is halfway through a two-year loan spell in France but seems unlikely to return to Nice next season now.
“Barcelona have received a 20 million euros offer for Marlon, so he should leave OGC Nice,” Riviere told Nice-Matin of Marlon, who started 22 Ligue 1 games last season as Nice finished eighth under the new Dortmund boss Lucian Favre.
It remains to be seen, however, whether the offer came from West Ham or Leicester.
An excellent passer of the ball who boasts impressive athleticism and speed across the ground, Marlon would be an excellent investment for West Ham and a big upgrade on Collins.
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