Igor Paixao (26) has said that a summer exit from Olympique de Marseille is “more likely” than a January exit. The Brazilian has said that, in the meantime, he is also not opposed to taking a pay cut, although the club are yet to make this request.

Paixao opted to stay at OM over the summer, despite significant interest from Sunderland and despite the club’s difficult financial situation. Bruno Genesio also lobbied for the Brazilian to remain at the Vélodrome, going against the ownership, who would ultimately grant the manager’s wish.

Paixao has, however, revealed a dream to play in the Premier League. That dream does not look like it will come true in January, however, as he has told Canal Plus. “Leaving in January? I don’t know. There is a bigger chance that I leave next summer,” said the former Feyenoord winger.

OM, in order to fulfil promises made to the DNCG and UEFA, are still looking to slash their wage bill further and have reached out to certain players in order to broach wage cuts. Paixao revealed that he has not yet held such talks, although he is not entirely opposed to having them.

GFFN | Luke Entwistle