Stade Rennes manager shuts down Abdelhamid Aït Boudlal exit rumours

Stade Rennes head coach Frank Hayes has downplayed reports linking Morocco defender Abdelhamid Aït Boudlal with a summer departure amid Premier League interest.

The 20-year-old centre-back has emerged as one of the most sought-after young defenders in European football following a breakthrough campaign in Ligue 1, attracting attention from several clubs across the continent during the ongoing summer transfer window.

However, Hayes has moved swiftly to reassure Rennes supporters that the Moroccan prospect remains an integral part of the club’s long-term project.

Speaking in an interview, Frank Hayes affirmed his outfit has no intention of parting ways with the highly-rated Moroccan international.

“There is no discussion about this matter. He hasn’t spoken to me about leaving. He has two years remaining on his contract, and we are counting on him,” Hayes said.

Hayes’ statement came shortly after reports emerged linking Aït Boudlal with a high-profile move to the English Premier League.

Fulham recently submitted an offer worth approximately £20 million (around €23 million) for the Moroccan defender. The bid, however, was swiftly rejected by Rennes, with club officials reportedly viewing the proposal as well below the player’s current market value and future potential.

Despite the setback, Fulham are reportedly unwilling to abandon their pursuit.

The London-based club remains keen on securing the defender’s services and is considering returning with an improved offer before the transfer window closes. The Premier League side views Aït Boudlal as a long-term investment capable of strengthening its defensive options for years to come.

Fulham are not alone in their admiration for the young Moroccan.

As per reports, Premier League giants Liverpool are also monitoring the defender’s progress. The Merseyside club is believed to have been impressed by his performances in Ligue 1 and his rapid development since breaking into Rennes’ first team.

While Liverpool’s interest has yet to materialize into a formal offer, their presence in the race further demonstrates the growing reputation of the Moroccan international among Europe’s elite clubs.

Nevertheless, Rennes remain adamant that the defender is not for sale.

Club officials reportedly see Aït Boudlal as a cornerstone of their future and are determined to continue his development in Brittany rather than cash in on his rising value. The defender remains under contract until the summer of 2028, placing Rennes in a strong position to resist external interest.

Aït Boudlal’s rise has been one of the standout success stories for Moroccan football in recent years.

A product of the renowned Mohammed VI Football Academy, he has followed in the footsteps of several talented Moroccan players who have successfully transitioned to European football after graduating from the prestigious institution.

Last season, the young centre-back made 21 appearances for Rennes across all competitions, showcasing maturity beyond his years and establishing himself as one of the most promising defenders in Ligue 1.

His composure in possession, aerial dominance, defensive awareness and ability to play out from the back have earned widespread praise from coaches, scouts and analysts alike.

The recognition of his talent has extended beyond club football.

Aït Boudlal has reportedly been included on the shortlist for the 2026 Golden Boy award, the prestigious annual honour presented by Italian newspaper Tuttosport to the best under-21 player competing in Europe’s top leagues.

The nomination places him among the continent’s most exciting young prospects and further enhances his growing profile on the international stage.

For Rennes, retaining Aït Boudlal is about more than simply keeping a talented player. The club views him as a central figure in its sporting project and a potential future leader within the squad.

With the transfer window still open and interest from England unlikely to disappear, speculation may continue in the coming weeks. However, based on the latest comments from Hayes and Rennes’ firm stance in negotiations, the French side appears determined to keep hold of its Moroccan gem for at least another season.

As things stand, Abdelhamid Aït Boudlal remains fully focused on Rennes, where the club hopes he can continue his development and further establish himself as one of the brightest defensive talents in European football.