Ligue 1 club Marseille agree deal to sign forward dubbed French Victor Boniface

Everton's French striker Neal Maupay is on the verge of joining Ligue 1 side Olympique Marseille.

Renowned transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that a deal has been struck between the two clubs for a loan move with a mandatory buy option.

According to Romano, Everton have agreed to a €4 million fee for the permanent transfer, as the Premier League club were adamant about a full departure rather than a temporary loan.

Maupay, who had already agreed to personal terms days ago, is now set for his medical examination at Marseille.

The 28-year-old forward's imminent departure has sparked reactions on social media, particularly after Maupay himself posted a humorous meme from the film "The Shawshank Redemption" in response to the news.

The image, depicting a scene from the prison escapes movie, prompted fans to comment on Maupay's well-known sense of humour.

One fan humorously dubbed Maupay as the "French Victor Boniface," drawing a parallel with the Nigerian striker known for his goal-scoring and being witty and funny.

Others praised Maupay's wit, with one supporter noting, "This guy is a part-time footballer, trolling is his main job."

Maupay's comedic approach to his transfer news has endeared him to many, with fans lamenting the loss of "our comedian" from the Premier League.

His ability to blend humour with his professional career has made him a unique figure in football and most especially, on social media.

As Maupay prepares for his return to French football with Marseille, it's clear that Ligue 1 is not just gaining a striker, but also one of the sport's most entertaining personalities both on and off the pitch.