Super Eagles: Key reason Marseille may miss out on Akor Adams

French club Olympique Marseille could fail in their pursuit of Super Eagles forward Akor Adams from Sevilla ahead of the summer transfer window, Afrik-Foot reports.

The 26-year-old has been the subject of intense transfer speculation heading into the transfer window, with interest in his services continuing to grow as several clubs look to lure him away from Sevilla this summer.

Adams arrived in Spain from Montpellier in January 2025 but initially struggled to adapt following his move. However, he enjoyed a much-improved 2025-26 campaign, establishing himself as one of the club’s key players.

The Nigerian striker scored 10 La Liga goals last season, with many of those goals proving crucial in helping Sevilla secure their top-flight status and his impressive performances have attracted interest from clubs in the Premier League, Serie A and Ligue 1.

While Venezia and Marseille have emerged as the leading contenders for his signature, the French giants could now fall short in their bid to sign one of their priority transfer targets.

Why Marseille’s pursuit of Akor Adams could fall short

According to reports, Marseille have been hit with sanctions by the Direction Nationale du Contrôle de Gestion (DNCG), French football’s financial body, and have been instructed to reduce their wage bill, which could significantly hamper their activity in the transfer market.

Additionally, Les Phocéens have recorded net losses over the past few seasons and are currently under investigation by UEFA after failing to meet the financial targets agreed upon during a settlement reached in 2022.

Their financial situation has since worsened, with UEFA set to impose fines and squad restrictions on the club ahead of next season.

As a result, Marseille are now considering the sale of several players in order to ease their financial difficulties. Mason Greenwood is among the most likely departures as the club looks to generate funds, reduce its wage bill and avoid even tougher sanctions.

With the need to cut costs, Marseille are now unlikely to complete expensive transfers unless a bargain opportunity becomes available and this situation is expected to have a direct impact on their pursuit of Adams.

The French side had identified the Super Eagles striker as a major attacking reinforcement ahead of next season and had been exploring a deal with Sevilla, who are reportedly demanding around €25 million.

However, Marseille are now unlikely to meet that valuation, meaning their pursuit of Adams could be put on hold this summer.

What next for Akor Adams?

The Super Eagles forward has been heavily linked with a move away from Sevilla this summer, with the Spanish club willing to sell him after just over a year due to their own financial challenges.

Despite the transfer speculation, Adams is leaning towards remaining at Sevilla, although he could eventually leave if the right offer comes in.

With Marseille now in danger of dropping out of the race, newly promoted Serie A side Venezia could be in pole position to sign the Super Eagles forward. The Italian club have already seen a €10 million bid rejected by Sevilla but are expected to return with an improved offer.

There is also interest from Premier League clubs and teams in the Middle East, and Sevilla would be willing to accept an offer that matches their asking price.

Adams’ situation remains one to watch during the summer transfer window as the Nigerian striker potentially prepares for the next chapter of his career.