Rennes are plotting a double Marseille for left-back Quentin Merlin (23) and midfielder Valentin Rongier (30), according to a report from The Parisian. Red and black are reportedly making progress in the race to sign the France U23 international left-back after opening talks with Marseille’s Sporting Director Medhi Benatia.

Rennes are in the market for a left-back after AFC Bournemouth signed Adrien Truffert in a €17m deal as the Cherries identified the Belgium-born France international as the ideal fit to replace Milos Kerkez, who joined Premier League champions Liverpool FC. Merlin is currently tied with Phocaeans over a contract set to expire in 2028. He featured 29 times for Roberto De Zerbi’s side last season.

Meanwhile, Rennes also have an interest in Marseille’s second player signed from formative club Nantes, the Bretons’ arch-rivals: Valentin Rongier. The 30-year-old is set to enter his final contract year after rejecting a contract renewal proposal from Phocaeans. Given his contractual situation and his Ligue 1 experience, Rennes see Rongier as a market opportunity. But Rennes are reportedly not alone in the race to sign Rongier. Marseille are expected to part ways with the versatile midfielder if their exit terms are met.

Tezz | Bastien Horse