Chances of Premier League move over as striker completes Ligue 1 switch
Arkadiusz Milik has ended speculation of a Premier League move by joining Marseille from Napoli.
Milik had emerged as a target for several Premier League clubs after being frozen out at Napoli. The Polish striker has not played this season after being left out of their squad list.
Several English teams were linked with a move, hoping he would be able to rediscover his best form. Indeed, the player himself remained confident he would be able to make an instant impact at his next club, despite not playing for six months.
That next club could have been in the Premier League. West Ham were the most recent contender for his signature, reportedly making a cheeky offer.
The Hammers are on the lookout for a new striker after selling Sebastien Haller to Ajax. There are a number of names on their shortlist, but Milik was a prime option.
Previously, he had also been linked with Tottenham. There was also talk of interest from Newcastle and Everton in the past.
However, Milik’s future has now become clear. He has officially joined Marseille from Napoli.
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The 26-year-old was out of contract at Napoli at the end of the season, but has extended his deal to facilitate the transfer.
Hence, he moves to Marseille on an 18-month loan deal with a view to a permanent transfer. Napoli claim there is an obligation to buy, but Marseille describe it as simply an option to buy.
However, there is a condition that will make it an obligation by the time Marseille next gain a point in Ligue 1. It would take something quite extraordinary, then, for the deal not to become permanent at some point.
Milik joins ‘prestigious’ club
The permanent transfer will be worth an initial €8m plus a possible €4m in add-ons.
That means Marseille were able to get a discount on the €15m price tag that Napoli were initially holding out for.
Milik described Marseille as one of Europe’s “most prestigious” clubs when giving the first explanation of his choice.
He tweeted: “I am happy and proud to announce that I am officially a player of Olympique de Marseille, one of the most prestigious clubs in Europe.
“I’m ready for this new adventure.”
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