Moroccan defender Abdelhamid Aït-Boudlal wanted by Fulham as Rennes demand €50m

Fulham have had an improved €35m offer, including bonuses, for Moroccan defender Abdelhamid Aït-Boudlal rejected by Stade Rennais, with the French club placing a valuation of close to €50m on the youngster.

The Premier League side had already seen an initial proposal worth €28m turned down before returning with an increased offer in an attempt to convince Rennes to sell their highly-rated centre-back.

However, the second approach was also rejected by the Breton club’s management, who remain determined to keep hold of Aït-Boudlal rather than allow him to leave for the amounts currently being discussed.

Rennes have maintained their position despite the growing interest from England. The club now values the young Moroccan defender at almost €50m, setting a significantly higher asking price than Fulham’s latest proposal.

That valuation represents a clear indication of Rennes’ intentions. The French club are not actively looking to sell Aït-Boudlal and would only consider his departure if an offer significantly higher than those already received was made.

Fulham’s €35m proposal, even with bonuses included, therefore remains well short of the figure Rennes currently have in mind for their prized asset.

The French club’s preference is instead to keep Aït-Boudlal and continue building their plans around the defender. Rennes are also looking to extend his contract as they seek to secure his future and strengthen his position at the centre of their project.

For Fulham, the situation leaves them with a decision to make if they remain determined to bring the Moroccan defender to the Premier League. Their first offer of €28m was rejected, while the improved €35m package has also failed to change Rennes’ position.

The next move will therefore be crucial. Fulham will need to substantially increase their proposal if they are to persuade Rennes to reconsider their stance.

Rennes, meanwhile, appear unwilling to compromise on their valuation and are continuing to signal that Aït-Boudlal will not be allowed to leave cheaply.

The Moroccan club and Fulham now have the next decisions to make, with Rennes holding firm over the future of one of their most valued young defenders. Unless Fulham significantly improve their offer, Aït-Boudlal is expected to remain at the French club.