Erik ten Hag to lose another star? Marseille plot new bid for Bayer Leverkusen winger as Roberto De Zerbi seeks new attacker to join Mason Greenwood and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang

L'Equipe reports that Marseille are exploring several attacking options, and among the serious contenders, a well-known name in French football has resurfaced: Adli, a former Toulouse player. As the club look to strengthen in attack, the Leverkusen winger's profile ticks several boxes. And above all, this is not the first time Marseille have considered him.

In 2021, Adli was shining in Toulouse, to the point of being on Marseille's radar but the deal didn't go through. Four years later, the stars seem to be better aligned. Now 25, the Moroccan international is coming off a successful spell with Leverkusen. And the player himself is not ruling out a new challenge.

Speaking to L'Equipe in July, Adli said: "Bayer is an exceptional club. But after four years and so many emotions, I think it's normal to ask yourself questions about your future. To know what I want to do. Should I leave or not, discover something else? It's legitimate to ask yourself these questions, especially as we're starting a new cycle. What matters to me is how I'm used on the pitch. I want to play in my position again, whether that's on the right wing or as a second striker. I want freedom, responsibility, rhythm and to feel confident."

Marseille officials, who are still searching for an attacking player capable of playing on the wings or in the centre, have entered into discussions to explore the feasibility of the deal. Les Olympiens' director of football, Medhi Benatia, knows Adli and his entourage well. He had advised him to choose Morocco when he was hesitating over his sporting nationality.

Furthermore, Marseille remain interested in Edon Zhegrova, but they are waiting to free up a non-EU player slot. No offer has been made to Lille at this time, and contacts with the Kosovar winger remain vague. On the other hand, Leverkusen have been linked with interest in Monaco sensation Maghnes Akliouche, who has previously found himself on Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain's radar.

Additional reporting by Patrick Tchanhoun.