Olympiacos are working urgently to finalize their remaining transfer targets before the approaching European squad registration deadline, according to reporter Vasilis Konstantopoulos on the Greek program The Football Show by Stoiximan on protothema.gr.
Konstantopoulos reported that the Greek club is targeting Norwegian right-back Marcus Pedersen, with Olympiacos reportedly submitting an offer of 6 million euros plus 2 million euros in add-ons to secure his signature.
The reporter stated that Pedersen closely matches the profile requested by head coach José Luis Mendilibar for the right side of defense. While Olympiacos have not formally confirmed the bid, the club is seeking to resolve the open position at right-back without delay.
Olympiacos, based in Piraeus, are one of the most successful football clubs in Greece and compete regularly in UEFA European competitions. Manager Mendilibar took charge of the team during the 2023-24 season and guided the club to European silverware, establishing a core group of players that forms the base of the current squad.
Negotiations for Vargas and Gil
Konstantopoulos also highlighted ongoing transfer discussions for Swiss attacker Rubén Vargas. Reports from Spain indicate that Spanish club Sevilla intend to continue negotiations with Olympiacos over a potential transfer for Vargas.
Alongside Vargas, Spanish winger Bryan Gil remains a prominent option for Olympiacos. Konstantopoulos noted that Gil represents an ardent desire for Mendilibar as the manager seeks further additions to his attacking options.
Sevilla are a major Spanish La Liga club with whom Mendilibar previously worked, winning the UEFA Europa League in 2023. The manager's familiarity with players in Spanish football has driven Olympiacos's recruitment focus during the current transfer window.
Transfer challenges and squad deadlines
Addressing the overall progress of Olympiacos's transfer window, Konstantopoulos noted that the club has encountered difficulties this summer. He explained that Olympiacos were not accustomed to facing closed doors during negotiations in past transfer windows, but the club is currently attempting to sign players from a higher competitive level.
The reporter emphasized that transfer planning has faced complications while available time is rapidly diminishing. Olympiacos are under increasing pressure due to the impending deadline to submit their official squad list for upcoming UEFA European fixtures.
Existing core and match schedule
Despite the unresolved transfer negotiations, competitive matches for the new season are already underway. Konstantopoulos pointed out that Olympiacos retain a significant advantage because Mendilibar has already built an established core of players.
He noted that Mendilibar has worked extensively to build strong team chemistry and tactical cohesion among the existing squad. Konstantopoulos concluded that multiple player names remain under consideration as Olympiacos push to reach final agreements before time runs out.
