Faitout Maouassa discusses future amid reported interest from Newcastle

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Rennes defender Faitout Maouassa has delivered a transfer blow to both Newcastle United and Manchester United after openly stating he is happy at Rennes – after the French club qualified for the Champions League.

French website Le10Sport have claimed that 21-year-old left-back Maouassa is a target for both Premier League clubs after a stellar season with the Ligue 1 side. Indeed, Maouassa played in 23 of the 28 Ligue 1 fixtures before the global health crisis.

The France Under-21 international was instrumental in helping his side climb to a huge third place in the top tier of French football. With the French government ruling an end to sport until September, Ligue 1 has finished as it stands.

That sees Rennes qualify for next season’s Champions League. According to The Sun, the 5ft 7in ace is currently valued at £10million, but Maouassa has been quoted as saying that although he is flattered by United – he is happy at Rennes.

“Inevitably, with the season we’ve had, we’re all in a bit of a rush,” Maouassa was quoted as saying Le10Sport. “But personally, I’m fine in Rennes. This year, there is the European Cup, there is no real reason for me to go. I feel great here.

“Manchester United’s interest? Frankly, it doesn’t go to my head. Yes, it makes me happy, I’m not going to lie. It’s really nice to see that clubs like that are interested. It’s really just happiness. But as I said, I feel great in Rennes.”

TBR’s view – Newcastle or United would still be hard to turn down

Both clubs will easily have enough spending power for Rennes to give in and accept an offer, and surely the lure of Manchester United or indeed cash-rich Newcastle United will tempt Maouassa – even if it means giving up Champions League football.

At 21, he will surely cement his place as a future France international – especially if he chooses Newcastle who need a left-sided defender with Jetro Willems and Danny Rose injured. Despite his comments, Maouassa will still surely be tempted.