Noah Atubolu’s search for a new club has taken another turn, with Marseille making an opening move for the Freiburg goalkeeper only to see their first offer rejected, Footynaija.com reports.
The 24-year-old goalkeeper has been expected to leave Freiburg this summer after the German club brought in Mio Backhaus from Werder Bremen as his replacement. Freiburg sporting director Jochen Saier confirmed earlier that Atubolu had been told he could look for a new club after both sides failed to agree on a contract extension.
Atubolu’s situation has been unusual because he still has a contract with Freiburg until June 2027, yet the club has already planned for life without him. He has also been linked with several clubs in England and Italy as he looks for the right move.
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A move to the Premier League has reportedly been his preferred option. He previously turned down approaches from newly promoted Hull City and Coventry City, while Bournemouth and Aston Villa have also been linked with the Germany youth international. Juventus have also shown interest.
Marseille have now entered the picture with a more direct move.
Marseille make opening move for Atubolu
According to reports from Germany, Marseille have submitted an opening offer for Atubolu, but Freiburg have rejected it because they believe it falls below their valuation.
The French club are expected to return with an improved proposal as they continue their search for a goalkeeper. Freiburg are willing to listen to offers, but they want a fee that reflects Atubolu’s status and the interest around him.
Reports have put Freiburg’s asking price at around €15 million to €20 million, although other German reports have placed their valuation closer to €20 million or more.
Atubolu came through Freiburg’s academy after joining the club as a young teenager and eventually became their first-choice goalkeeper. He played every minute of Freiburg’s 2025/26 Europa League campaign and helped the club reach their first European final.
That form has helped make him an attractive option for clubs looking for a young goalkeeper with Bundesliga and European experience.
Atubolu was born in Germany to a Nigerian father, which makes him eligible to represent the Super Eagles. He has played for Germany at youth level and was included in the senior setup without making his debut.
