Rabat – Moroccan international Abdelhamid Ait Boudlal has reportedly yet to reach an agreement with Stade Rennais over a contract extension, contrary to earlier reports that suggested the two parties had finalized a deal.
According to Sky Sport Switzerland’s journalist Sacha Tavoliwari, discussions between the 20-year-old defender, his representatives and the French club have been underway since the summer, but no agreement has been reached.
The latest report contradicts information published on Monday, October 12, which claimed that Rennes and Aït Boudlal had agreed to extend his contract, currently valid until June 2028.
Sky Sport Switzerland maintains that negotiations remain unresolved, with no clear indication of whether an extension will be finalized. Rennes have yet to officially announce a new agreement.
The uncertainty surrounding the Moroccan’s future follows a summer during which he attracted interest from the English Premier League.
According to the Swiss outlet, Fulham submitted two offers for Aït Boudlal, initially worth €28 million before increasing their bid to €35 million. Rennes rejected both proposals and reportedly valued the defender at €40 million.
Despite the club’s decision to retain him, Ait Boudlal has faced increased competition for playing time this season. The Moroccan has made four appearances across all competitions this season, with three starts and 280 minutes of playing time.
Rennes sporting director Loic Désiré addressed the defender’s situation in September and suggested that the summer transfer speculation may have affected his concentration.
Ait Boudlal joined Rennes in July 2024 after progressing through Morocco’s Mohammed VI Football Academy. The Marrakech-born centre-back established himself in the French club’s senior squad last season, with 20 Ligue 1 appearances and two goals.
He also captained Morocco’s U17 national team during the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, where the Atlas Cubs reached the final against Senegal.
Although Sky Sport Switzerland suggests that his recent playing time could influence negotiations, no direct connection between his selection and the contract discussions has been established.
Ait Boudlal remains under contract with Rennes until June 2028, but the conflicting reports leave the possibility of an extension uncertain.
