West Ham United defender Emerson and the West Ham badge.
Credit: Imago
Pranav Shahaney
Fri 29 August 2025 17:31, UK
Emerson Palmieri appears to be on the verge of leaving West Ham permanently ahead of the transfer deadline.
The Italian left-back was absent from West Ham’s matchday squad against Sunderland in the opening weekend of the season and he even missed the Chelsea and Wolves defeats.
Emerson seemed to be heading towards the exit door at the London Stadium right after Kyle Walker-Peters arrived and it looks like it’s going to happen in the coming days.
Graham Potter on the touchline in West Ham training gear.
Credit: Imago
Marseille reach agreement to sign Emerson Palmieri
Emerson emerged on Marseille’s radar recently as the Ligue 1 side are keen on signing the experienced left-back this summer.
The 31-year-old, who does not seem to be in Graham Potter’s plans, has agreed personal terms with Marseille.
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According to the reliable transfer journalist Fabrice Hawkins on 29 August, a two-year agreement has been struck between the left-back and the French club.
Emerson is a Champions League, Europa League and Europa Conference League winner
He joined West Ham in 2022 from Chelsea for a reported £13million fee
The Italian still has another year left on his contract at the London Stadium
There is an option to extend Emerson’s contract by another year, which would see him staying at Marseille until 2028.
However, the Hammers and Marseille have still not agreed on a transfer fee and negotiations are ongoing to achieve that.
Aaron Cresswell left West Ham.
Credit: Imago
West Ham may settle for a £7m fee
West Ham should aim to secure close to £10million from Marseille for Emerson, though settling for £7-8million may be realistic, given his age and contract status.
At 31, the Italian left-back offers experience with the experience of winning multiple trophies at club level, plus a Euro 2020 title with Italy.
However, with one year left on his deal, cashing in now maximises value before a potential free transfer in 2026.
Emerson’s defensive solidity and attacking contributions suit Marseille’s Ligue 1 ambitions, but his age limits long-term resale potential.
A £7-8million deal balances market realities with West Ham’s need to fund squad reinforcements under Potter.
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