Rennes hold firm as Strasbourg weigh up approach for rising midfielder Cisse

Djaoui Cisse has attracted interest from RC Strasbourg after making an impression in his first Ligue 1 appearances, but Stade Rennais remain in a strong position to decide the 22-year-old midfielder’s future.

According to L’Equipe, Strasbourg are considering strengthening their midfield with Cisse, whose performances for Rennes have drawn attention since his breakthrough during the 2024-25 season. The Alsace-based club value his profile and could make an initial offer in the coming weeks.

However, there have not yet been formal discussions between the two clubs. Strasbourg would therefore need to make a convincing proposal if they are to turn their interest into a serious move.

Cisse came through the Stade Rennais academy and established himself during the 2024-25 campaign. His physical qualities, ability to cover ground and willingness to support attacks helped him earn the confidence of the Rennes coaching staff.

His emergence has also attracted interest from outside France. Bayer Leverkusen had previously shown an interest in the player, as reported exclusively by Africafoot.

Rennes acted to protect their position by extending Cisse’s contract until 2030. That long-term agreement gives the Breton club considerable control over his future and means they are under no immediate pressure to sell.

If Strasbourg proceed with an offer, Rennes would be in a strong negotiating position and could demand a significant fee should Cisse leave. The club’s contract protection also allows them to decide whether any proposal matches their valuation of the young midfielder.

The potential move would represent the latest stage in a growing market for Cisse, following Bayer Leverkusen’s interest. Strasbourg’s next step will determine whether their current admiration develops into a formal attempt to sign him.

Rennes are preparing to begin their Ligue 1 campaign against Paris Saint-Germain in the first round of fixtures. Betting odds listed by 1xBet make Rennes outsiders for that match, with a home win priced at 6.80, a draw at 5.40 and a Paris Saint-Germain victory at 1.36.

For the moment, the focus around Cisse remains on whether Strasbourg will make an approach rather than on an agreement being close. Rennes’ decision to tie him down until 2030 means the club retain the advantage, while Strasbourg must now decide how far they are prepared to go to secure the midfielder.