OM is closely interested in Yusuf Akçiçek, young Turkish defender of Fenerbahçe. But what really is this bet of 20 million euros worth?
At just 19 years old, Yusuf Akçiçek already attracts the eyes of Europe. Born in Istanbul in January 2006, he was trained in the Galatasaray training center before joining that of Fenerbahçe, where he signed his first professional contract in July 2023. Gaucher central defender culminating at 1.93 meters, he seduced by his physical presence and his astonishing maturity for his age. Its impressive template and its quality of recovery make it a rare profile, ideal for modern systems based on possession and construction from the rear.
A rapid ascent despite a low experience
Akçiçek has crossed several levels in record time. He played his first professional minutes in the Europa Conference League in November 2023, before being launched in Süper Lig in the spring of 2024. During the 2024-2025 season, he took part in ten championship games, scored a goal in the European Cup and was established in key matches with Fenerbahçe. Selected for young people in the national team, he was called in a Turkish team A Turkish for the first time in March 2025. Despite this weak baggage, he is already one of the great hopes of Turkish football.
Yusuf akçiçek, the new Turkish rock that intrigues OM
A modern profile that appeals to Zerbi
Akçiçek checks several boxes that seduce the OM staff. At the time ball, he can break lines by the pass and do not reluctant to the impact in the duels. Several observers, including José Mourinho, have already compared him to a certain Raphaël Varane for his calm and defensive intelligence. Its average note on the Sofascore platform, close to 6.5 in European matches, translates a certain consistency. For Roberto de Zerbi, his profile fits perfectly with a three -time defense or in a two axis where the revival is essential.
An ambitious operation … but expensive
OM has made a first offer pushed by Fenerbahçe, which claims nearly 20 million euros. A considerable sum for such a young player, but who testifies to the will of the Marseille club to invest in potential profiles. Yusuf akçiçek is also followed by Bayern Munich and Tottenham, a sign that his talent does not go unnoticed. According to some sources, a second Marseille proposal, revised upwards, could arrive in the coming days.
A bet on the double -edged future
By betting on Yusuf Akçiçek, OM is part of a youth renewal strategy, even if it means taking certain risks. Because if the talent is there, the highest level experience remains limited. The management of pressure, the sequence of meetings and the requirement of the Champions League will be as many challenges to be met. But with adequate support, this slender defender could well embody the future of the Olympian hinge.
