Rennes reject Fulham approach for Morocco defender Abdelhamid Ait Boudlal

Fulham have made an opening offer for Stade Rennais defender Abdelhamid Ait Boudlal, but the proposed €23m fee has been rejected by the French club.

The offer was immediately turned down by Rennes’ hierarchy, who believe the figure is significantly below their valuation of the Morocco international, according to The Athletic.

Rennes are expected to sell several players to comply with financial fair play requirements, but the departure of 20-year-old Ait Boudlal is not currently part of their plans. The club have already rejected an earlier offer from Germany for the defender, as reported exclusively by Africafoot.

Instead, Rennes are considering the sale of other members of their squad as they work to meet their financial obligations. The club’s stance means Fulham must decide whether to return with an improved proposal if they are to make progress in their pursuit.

The Premier League club are weighing up whether to increase their offer. At the same time, Fulham remain aware of the difficulty of reaching an agreement and are examining alternative defensive targets.

Despite Rennes’ refusal to sell, Ait Boudlal is understood to be interested in the attention from England, according to Foot Mercato. The player, who was born in Marrakech, is open to the possibility of moving to the Premier League this summer and would welcome the opportunity to take on a new challenge in his career.

That desire could leave room for further discussions if Fulham submit an offer which meets Rennes’ expectations and satisfies all sides. However, the French club’s current position is that the initial €23m proposal is not sufficient to secure the defender’s services.

Ait Boudlal was developed at the Mohammed VI Football Academy, one of Morocco’s leading centres for youth development, before joining Rennes in 2024. He made 21 appearances in all competitions last season, including 20 Ligue 1 matches, and scored two goals.

Those performances established him as one of the most promising defensive players in the Rennes squad. His current contract runs until 2028, giving the club a strong negotiating position as Fulham consider their next move.

Transfermarkt values Ait Boudlal at €12m, although Rennes’ assessment of the player is clearly higher. Fulham’s initial approach therefore represents a significant premium on that valuation, but it has not persuaded the French side to negotiate a sale at the proposed price.

The situation could change if Fulham decide to improve their offer, while the player’s willingness to consider a move to England may encourage the clubs to continue talks. For now, though, Ait Boudlal remains a Rennes player and Fulham are also assessing other defensive options.