Stade Rennais have rejected an offer worth more than €20 million from Fulham for Moroccan defender Abdelhamid Aït Boudlal, underlining the club’s belief in the young centre-back’s potential.
The decision comes after another impressive performance from Aït Boudlal against Paris Saint-Germain on Sunday, as Rennes held the French champions to a 2-2 draw in the opening round of Ligue 1.
Aït Boudlal Impresses Against PSG
The 20-year-old defender delivered a composed display at the heart of the Rennes defence, forming a solid partnership with new signing Charlie Cresswell.
His performance further highlighted the rapid progress he has made since joining Rennes from the Mohammed VI Football Academy in 2024.
With Jérémy Jacquet leaving for Liverpool during the summer transfer window, Aït Boudlal is expected to take on an even more important role in the Rennes defence this season.
Fulham Push for the Moroccan
Fulham have emerged as one of the strongest admirers of the Morocco international.
The English club reportedly submitted an offer exceeding €20 million and even sent representatives to watch Aït Boudlal in person during Rennes' clash with PSG.
Despite the growing interest, Rennes have shown no intention of allowing their young defender to leave under normal circumstances.
Rennes Send a Clear Message
The French club consider Aït Boudlal an important part of their sporting project and are prepared to resist further approaches.
According to the reports, Rennes would only consider selling the Moroccan if they receive an exceptional or extraordinary offer that would be difficult to refuse.
The stance reflects how quickly Aït Boudlal's status has changed.
Just two years after arriving from the Mohammed VI Football Academy, the Moroccan defender has developed into one of Rennes' most promising young players and is now attracting serious attention from the Premier League.
Another Moroccan Talent on the Rise
Aït Boudlal's growing market value is another example of the increasing presence of Moroccan talent across Europe's biggest leagues.
At just 20, the centre-back now has the opportunity to establish himself as a key figure for Rennes while continuing his development at the highest level.
And with Fulham already willing to go beyond €20 million, the race for one of Morocco’s brightest defensive talents could be only just beginning.