Tottenham Hotspur have suffered a blow to their interest in a transfer for Jonathan Clauss as the RC Lens star now wants to join Marseille, who have seen an opening offer rejected.
That’s according to L’Equipe, who note Marseille opened negotiations with Lens for Clauss’ services on Friday, as new boss Igor Tudor strives to refresh the squad that Jorge Sampaoli assembled. And the France international is keen to secure a move to the Stade Velodrome.
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Clauss believes a transfer to Les Phoceens will open the door to greater opportunities, plus a chance to cement his credentials as Didier Deschamps’ first-choice right-back at the 2022 World Cup. He is also enamoured with the prospect of playing Champions League football.
Marseille only team to made Clauss bid amid rival Tottenham interest in Lens star
Marseille finished as runners-up to Paris Saint-Germain for Ligue 1 honours last term with a 15-point deficit. OM are now eager to construct a squad capable of competing in Europe, having exited their last Champions League appearance in fourth in the group stage in 2020.
Clauss is a priority option on Tudor’s shopping list to strengthen the right-back position at the Stade Velodrome. However, Lens scoffed at Marseille’s suggestion of a €5m (£4.25m) upfront instalment, with an additional €1m (£845k) set aside for potential future bonuses.
Marseille are the only team to table a bid to date, but their offer was miles from what Lens believe Clauss is worth. Les Sang et Or expect to receive at least an initial €10m (£8.5m) for the four-cap dynamo, who Foot Mercato have reported Lens value at a total €20m (£17m).
Discussions will continue between the Marseille and Lens hierarchies in search of common ground. OM have also begun negotiations over personal terms with the representatives of Clauss, who Sky Sports note Tottenham are also interested in signing after his strong term.
Clauss offered 11 assists and five goals from 37 Ligue 1 appearances last season to merit a debut match for France in March. He is also a versatile operator with games at full-back, in midfield and attack, and will strive to start next term well for a seat on the plane to Qatar.
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