Super Eagles: Two key reasons Rennes are pushing to sign Emmanuel Fernandez

French club Rennes have reportedly joined the race to sign Super Eagles defender Emmanuel Fernandez ahead of the summer transfer window, Afrik-Foot reports.

According to Ouest-France via The Scottish Sun, the three-time French Cup winners are the latest club to express interest in the Nigerian defender as they prepare for the new season.

Fernandez only joined Rangers from English lower-league side Peterborough United last summer but quickly established himself as one of the club’s standout performers during a difficult campaign.

His impressive displays earned him a place in the PFA Scotland Premiership Team of the Season, while he was also named Rangers’ Men’s Player of the Season.

The Super Eagles star’s performances have not gone unnoticed. Premier League champions Arsenal are reportedly monitoring him as a potential defensive reinforcement, while Chelsea and Borussia Dortmund have also been shown desire to add him to their squad ahead of next season.

Rennes have now entered the race as they look to strengthen their squad ahead of next season, and there are several reasons why the Ligue 1 side have identified the Super Eagles defender as a key target.

Super Eagles star can slot in for Jeremy Jacquet

Rennes are expected to lose highly-rated defender Jeremy Jacquet to Liverpool. The two clubs agreed a deal during the January transfer window, with the French youngster set to complete his move on July 1.

Jacquet developed into one of Rennes’ most important defenders, and replacing him will be a priority. Fernandez fits the profile the French club are looking for after enjoying a breakthrough season at Rangers.

The Nigerian centre-back possesses many of the qualities required in a modern defender. He scored six goals last season, highlighting his aerial threat and ability from set-pieces. The 24-year-old is also comfortable in possession and has a very impressive passing range, which suits Rennes’ style of building up play from the back.

An affordable option in defence

Rangers value Fernandez at around €25–30 million, which is relatively reasonable for a defender coming off such an outstanding season.

Several of Rennes’ other defensive targets are expected to cost significantly more, making Fernandez a more attractive option from a financial standpoint, while personal terms is also not expected to be a major obstacle.

Rennes have already pulled out of negotiations for some defenders after being they were priced out of potential deals, but Fernandez represents a combination of quality and long-term potential and at just 24, he could become a mainstay in the club’s defence for years to come.

Although Fernandez has reaffirmed his commitment to Rangers, growing interest from some of Europe’s biggest clubs means it may only be a matter of time before he begins the next chapter of his career.