Jean-Armel Kana-Biyik Faces Summer Departure Amid Premier League Interest
By BBC Sport
Jean-Armel Kana-Biyik looks set to leave Stade Rennais this summer following a difficult end to the 2013-14 season. The 25-year-old Cameroonian defender, son of former Cameroon international André Kana-Biyik, has reportedly attracted interest from several clubs, with a potential move to England emerging as a leading possibility.
The Daily Mail has linked Kana-Biyik with a move to Hull City, who are searching for defensive reinforcements ahead of the new Premier League campaign. The Tigers are said to be considering the defender as a candidate to bolster their backline. Additionally, French side Saint-Étienne have shown interest, while reports suggest that Queens Park Rangers are in advanced talks, prepared to offer around €2.5 million to secure his services.
Kana-Biyik, under contract with Rennes until June 2015, featured in 21 Ligue 1 matches last season. However, his final months with the club were marred by defensive errors and a high-profile poor performance in the Coupe de France final, where Rennes were defeated by Guingamp. This downturn in form was compounded by clashes with supporters, leading to an emotional fallout after the final loss where the defender reportedly insulted and threatened fans.
The repercussions extended beyond club football. Suspended by Rennes, Kana-Biyik also missed the 2014 World Cup after announcing his retirement from international football, citing “scheming” within the Cameroonian setup. This decision came just two years after opting to represent Cameroon at senior level, having previously played for French youth teams.
Coach Philippe Montanier omitted Kana-Biyik from Rennes’ pre-season training camp, a move likely influenced by the defender’s ongoing transfer talks and off-field issues. As summer approaches, the Cameroonian appears determined to seek a fresh start, with a move to the Premier League possibly offering the change he needs to revive his career.
Clubs interested in Kana-Biyik will hope to secure a deal soon, with Rennes keen to resolve the defender’s future ahead of the new season. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether the experienced defender will continue his career in France or embark on a new challenge in England.
