Stade Rennais is having a complicated season. While it was expected at the top of the bill, the SRFC was disillusioned. Thirteenth in the Ligue 1 standings, the Bretons are already fifteen points behind third place. They also saw their coach Bruno Genesio give up his apron and yesterday, a new European disillusionment (3-2 defeat against Villarreal) was added to the record of this 2023/2024 exercise.
To try to explain the very disappointing first half of the season for the Rouge et Noir, all observers pointed to a lack of experience, a squad that was too nice and above all a failing summer transfer window for 2023. Remaining in Brittany after having considered leaving, Florian Maurice defended himself against this attack last month, believing that it is easy today to criticize a recruitment which had been validated last summer.
Theate is still popular
While waiting to see if Rennes will adjust their sights during the next winter transfer window, The Corriere dello Sport tells us that the training dear to the Pinault family will also have to fight to retain certain elements. The Italian newspaper explains that Fiorentina is still interested in defender Arthur Theate (23 years old). The Belgian joined SRFC in 2022 in exchange for €19 million and was one of the most requested players during the 2023 summer transfer window, already by the Viola.
In addition to Fiorentina, RB Leipzig knocked on the door of the Rouge et Noir. In vain. Rennes is keen on its defender whose contract runs until 2027. La Viola therefore wants to try their luck again with a player who knows Serie A since his loan to Bologna. However, the Tuscan club has been exposed. It’s “niet” for this winter and to convince Rennes to let go of their Belgian next summer, it will be €20 million or nothing.
