Eliezer Mayenda makes Ligue 1 return: Sunderland agree deal with Rennes

Sunderland AFC have agreed to sell young striker Eliezer Mayenda in a deal worth €22 million, with an additional €3 million tied to performance-related bonuses, as the forward prepares for a return to French football.

The 21-year-old is set to join Stade Rennais FC after both clubs reached full agreement, according to reports from Foot Mercato. The move brings an end to a short but eventful spell in England for the Spanish youth international.

A return to familiar ground

For Mayenda, the transfer marks something of a homecoming. He began his development in France at the academy of FC Sochaux-Montbéliard, where he rose through the ranks and made history as the club’s youngest-ever professional debutant.

That early promise convinced Sunderland to invest in his potential, but consistency proved difficult to establish in English football’s demanding environment.

Mixed spell in England

Mayenda’s time at Sunderland included flashes of promise, most notably a goal on his Premier League debut at the start of last season. However, opportunities remained limited thereafter.

He went on to make 20 appearances across the campaign, often featuring from the bench as he struggled to cement a regular starting role in the squad.

Despite his talent and physical presence, Sunderland’s evolving attacking options meant his development stalled, prompting both player and club to consider a move that would better suit his progression.

Rennes project and fresh opportunity

Now, the forward will attempt to reset his career in Ligue 1 under the guidance of Franck Haise at Rennes.

The French side view Mayenda as a long-term attacking investment as they continue to strengthen their squad with an eye on sustained European qualification.

Rennes have been steadily rebuilding in recent seasons and see the arrival of the 21-year-old as part of a wider push to establish themselves among France’s more consistent continental contenders.