Southampton make approach for Rennes winger Jérémy Doku

According to Sebastien Denis of Foot Mercato, Southampton have approached Brittany side Rennes about a move for Belgian winger Jérémy Doku.

Recruited by Rennes for €26.5 million in 2020’s summer transfer window, Doku has not yet managed to consistently demonstrate his obvious qualities. Previously plagued by injury, he has begun to see a resurgence in form, and, if he can stay injury-free, he may prove to be a valuable asset to Bruno Genesio, Rennes’ manager. However, Genesio and technical director Florian Maurice may need to ward off prying eyes as Rennes are also without Martin Terrier for the rest of the season due to injury.

After Doku scored his first goal for more than a year in the French cup against Bordeaux this weekend, Genesio reiterated the Belgian’s importance: “Let me remind you that he is a young man who must continue to train and learn his trade to the highest level. With every game, he will get more and more time to do this.” 

Terrier had had eight goals and four assists this campaign before a serious knee injury in a game against OGC Nice, so Rennes must be careful to make sure his absence will not cost them this season. Fourth in Ligue 1, Rennes are poised to battle for Champions League places with other strong contenders such as RC Lens, Monaco, and Marseille. Doku’s timely resurgence may well be the good news they need.

Those with prying eyes include Southampton, just across the English channel. Sitting at the bottom of the Premier League after a dismal start to the season, the Saints will need to sell their project of revival to Doku if he is to sign for the relegation-bound side. The prospect of UCL football next season may just keep him in France.

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