Bologna step up interest in Stade Rennais defender Lilian Brassier

Bologna are monitoring Stade Rennais central defender Lilian Brassier and could soon make an approach for the Franco-Togolese player as the summer transfer window enters its final stages.

According to Corriere dello Sport, Brassier has become one of the Italian club’s priorities as they look to strengthen their defence. Bologna are seeking greater depth in their squad and want to add an experienced defender capable of providing defensive solidity while also contributing to their build-up play.

The Serie A side have reportedly already opened discussions with Brassier’s representatives to establish whether he would be interested in a move. Bologna want to understand the defender’s intentions and his willingness to join the Italian top flight before deciding whether to submit a formal offer.

No official bid has yet been made for the 26-year-old, but the situation is being closely followed by Stade Rennais. Any concrete approach from Bologna could lead to negotiations in the coming days and create a new transfer story for the Breton club before the window closes.

Brassier is under contract with Stade Rennais until June 2029, meaning the club are under no immediate pressure to sell. That long-term agreement gives Rennes a strong position in any talks and means they are unlikely to allow the defender to leave for a fee they consider inadequate.

The player is currently valued at €12m, a figure that remains within reach for several European clubs. Bologna, whose ambitions have grown in recent seasons, are among those considered capable of pursuing a deal at that level.

Brassier’s combination of physical strength, Ligue 1 experience and ability to operate in a modern defensive system fits the profile Bologna are looking for. Those qualities have helped make him a target as the Italian club assess ways to reinforce their back line.

While the move remains at an early stage, the next step will depend on the outcome of the discussions between Bologna and the defender’s representatives. The Italian club want clarity on Brassier’s position before committing to an official proposal, while Stade Rennais can continue to assess the market from a position of contractual security.

If talks progress positively, the interest could develop quickly into one of the transfers to watch during the closing stages of the summer window. For now, Bologna have identified Brassier as a priority, but no agreement has been reached and Stade Rennais have yet to receive a formal offer.