Alexei Batrakov to OM: rumor denied but the door remains open

Since the start of the transfer window, our OM has been busy: between Aubameyang, Paixão, Weah, Medina, and Gomes, there's action on all levels. But while everyone perhaps expected other big names, a rumor from Russia emerged: Alexei Batrakov, 25, midfielder for Lokomotiv Moscow, is reportedly on Marseille’s radar. Shall we take stock together?

A rumor quickly deflated… but not completely ruled out

Concretely, several Russian media outlets reported OM's interest in Batrakov. A solid player, rather discreet but ultra-consistent in the Russian Premier League, capable of steadying the ship in midfield. Except his agent, Vladimir Kuzmichev, quickly calmed everyone down: "It's a hoax. I work hand in hand with Lokomotiv, and if there had been the slightest contact, I would know." That has the merit of being clear… at least on the surface.

But be careful, Kuzmichev didn't slam the door completely shut! He still specifies that if an interesting offer comes along for the club and the player, anything is possible. We know this type of statement; it sounds like "come with something substantial and we'll talk again." Do you think we should try, you? Tell us in the comments what you would do in Longoria's place!

Batrakov: a profile that ticks boxes, but at what price?

Sportingly, it must be said: Batrakov is not media frenzy, but he is a midfielder capable of providing stability to our squad, especially with departures like that of Rongier. We still lack a real regulator in the middle. But is betting on a player who has never played outside Russia not a risky gamble? And in terms of adaptation, we know that Ligue 1 is a different world!

Financially, his contract is solid for the upcoming season. This means that, to get him out of Lokomotiv, we'd need to open the checkbook or find a clever arrangement. Is it worth it, when our stated priorities remain Ismaël Bennacer (AC Milan) and Matt O’Riley (Brighton), for whom we are exploring a loan with an option to buy?

Pablo Longoria and Medhi Benatia: always on the lookout

What is clear is that our management remains attentive to all possibilities. Batrakov does not seem to be the number one target, but who would have bet on Igor Paixão or even Aubameyang a few weeks ago? The transfer window is sometimes the art of seizing an unexpected opportunity. The real question, friends, is: should we still be looking for this renowned midfielder, or focus on our priorities? And if the market goes wild, could Batrakov be the surprise at the end of August?

So, what do you think? Should we make a move for Batrakov or save our resources for Bennacer or O’Riley? Share your opinions, your arguments, and your recruitment dreams in the comments. Go OM!