Liverpool to Reignite Igor Paixão Pursuit as Arne Slot Pushes for Reunion

Igor Paixão, who transferred from Feyenoord to Olympique Marseille in the summer of 2025 for a record fee of approximately €30 million, has become the most talked-about "winger" in the European transfer market following his performance in his debut Ligue 1 season. 

As the Summer 2026 transfer window approaches, the Brazilian star’s future at Marseille enters a critical juncture between the club’s financial objectives and the surging interest from European giants. 

The Velodrome’s new "number 14," who has enchanted fans with his pace and technical ability, is preparing to headline one of the biggest transfer stories of this summer.

Marseille’s New Dynamo

Having taken centre stage in the Trophée des Champions final in January 2026 and establishing himself as the most creative spark in Marseille’s attacking line throughout the season, Paixão, despite being 25 years old, is regarded as one of the most mature wingers in European football. 

With his explosive pace, 1v1 dribbling proficiency in tight spaces, and goal-scoring potential, he has assumed an indispensable role in Habib Beye’s tactical system. 

However, for Marseille, the picture off the pitch may not be as bright as the one on it.

The Club’s Dilemma

Olympique Marseille’s management holds a very clear view on Paixão: they admire his talent and wish to retain him in the squad. 

Although, the financial bottleneck the club currently faces, combined with revenue planning tied to Champions League qualification, may force Marseille into a difficult decision. 

According to the latest reports, Marseille management does not intend to sell the Brazilian unless an "irrefutable" offer is made; however, the necessity to close the club's budget deficit makes Paixão their most valuable sellable asset.

It is rumoured that the transfer fee Marseille will demand to sit at the table will be in the €50-60 million bracket. Considering the €30 million paid in 2025, the club plans to generate a significant profit from this transaction.

Arsenal, Liverpool, and Bundesliga Tracking

It is no surprise that the most serious candidates in the transfer market for Paixão hail from the Premier League. 

Arsenal, who missed out on the player to Marseille last year, have re-entered the race driven by Mikel Arteta’s desire to bolster his wing rotation. It is claimed that Arsenal is preparing a package consisting of €35 million plus add-ons for Paixão.

On the other hand, Paixão’s name features prominently in the scouting reports of Liverpool, who are preparing for a revision of their attacking line. The Brazilian’s suitability for a high-intensity pressing game is seen as a "perfect fit" for Liverpool’s new setup. Manager Arne Slot previously worked with the winger back in his Feyenoord days, and was also linked with the player in the summer. 

From the Bundesliga, it is reported that Bayer Leverkusen is closely monitoring the player’s situation and is waiting for their European competition qualification to be finalised before establishing official contact.

Relegation battlers Nottingham Forest previously had interest, but our sources now understand any move would now be unrealistic. 

Contract Status and Wage Expectations

Paixão’s contract with Marseille runs until June 2030. This long-term deal is the most significant factor strengthening Marseille’s hand in transfer negotiations. 

On the player’s side, the allure of the wage structures offered by Premier League sides could create "transfer pressure." Leaked information suggests that Paixão could demand nearly double his current salary, with expectations in the €4-5 million annual range.