Olympique de Marseille have made a much-needed addition to their attacking ranks with the loan signing of Málaga CF striker Sergio Contreras 'Koke'.

Option to buy
The 20-year-old, a product of the youth system at Málaga, has joined until the end of the season and Marseille have first option to buy him should he impress during the coming months. Competition from Salva Ballesta and Diego Alonso meant Koke had only limited first-team opportunities this season. He started six Primera División matches, scoring once.

Striker shortage
Marseille coach José Anigo was keen to bring in a striker following Dmitri Sytchev's return to Russia to join FC Lokomotiv Moskva. Marseille are also missing Ahmed Hossam 'Mido' who is playing for Egypt at the African Cup of Nations, as well as the injured Stepan Vachousek.

Dnipro test
Marseille are presently sixth in Ligue 1 and face FC Dnipro Dnipropetrovsk in the UEFA Cup third round later this month.