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Former Marseille director discusses failed attempt to sign Lucas Da Cunha

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 5, 2026, 8:20 AM

Last updated Oct 5, 2026

Former Marseille director discusses failed attempt to sign Lucas Da Cunha

Summary

Medhi Benatia, the former sporting director of Olympique de Marseille, discussed his efforts to sign Lucas Da Cunha from Como last January. Benatia revealed that the club monitored Da Cunha for 18 months but found the price too high. Instead, they acquired Quinten Timber, who later moved to Crystal Palace. Da Cunha has since achieved significant success, including helping Como earn promotion and qualifying for the UEFA Champions League.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Key Details

•Lucas Da Cunha currently plays for Como and represents France.
•Benatia identified Da Cunha as a target for Marseille over 18 months.
•Marseille opted for Quinten Timber due to financial constraints.
•Como earned promotion and Champions League qualification under Da Cunha.
•Zinédine Zidane has taken notice of Da Cunha's performance in the national team.

Latest Updates

8:20 AMYahoo Sports — Former Marseille sporting director reveals attempts to sign France international Lucas Da Cunha

What they're saying

"
It has been quite the journey for Lucas Da Cunha. An outcast at OGC Nice, who had had a loan spell at Clermont Foot, a move to Serie B and to Como set the midfielder on a trajectory toward the France ...
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Champions League Soccer