Abdelhamid Ait Boudlal may not renew Rennes contract

Foot Mercato reported earlier this week that Abdelhamid Ait Boudlal (20) looked set to renew his deal at Stade Rennais, however, Sacha Tavolieri now understands that an agreement between the two parties is not close and that the Moroccan’s future at Roazhon Park is perhaps in doubt.

Ait Boudlal started the season partnering Charlie Cresswell at centre-back, however, perhaps distracted by significant interest from Fulham, his performances were significantly below the levels that he showed during the second half of last season. Anthony Rouault has since earned game time at Roazhon Park. Franck Haise was openly critical of the Moroccan defender after his error-strewn performances.

Fulham saw two Ait Boudlal bids rejected

There have been talks over a contract extension, but Ait Boudlal’s current situation as a second-choice option could have an impact on the success of those talks. Currently, no deal is close. His current deal runs until 2028.

The Moroccan still holds a high market value. He was the subject of approaches from Fulham FC over the summer. Tavolieri understands that the Premier League submitted two offers, the second of which was worth €35m. Rennes were holding out for €40m.

GFFN | Luke Entwistle