Fulham are not giving up on their pursuit of Moroccan defender Abdelhamid Ait Boudlal, with the Premier League club continuing negotiations with Stade Rennais over a potential transfer. According to French outlet Foot Mercato, the London-based club submitted an initial offer for the 20-year-old center-back, but Rennes rejected the proposal. Despite the setback, Fulham remain interested in the Moroccan international and are expected to continue discussions with the Ligue 1 side in an effort to find an agreement.

Fulham have not abandoned their pursuit of Moroccan defender Abdelhamid Ait Boudlal, with the Premier League club continuing negotiations with Stade Rennais over a potential transfer.

Why it matters for Fulham

The Cottagers are looking to strengthen their defensive options ahead of the 2026-27 season, and Ait Boudlal has emerged as one of the young defenders on their shortlist. The club's continued interest suggests that the Moroccan remains a priority target despite Rennes' initial refusal to accept their offer.

Fulham are expected to continue discussions with Rennes in an effort to find an agreement. The outcome may depend on the gap between the two clubs' valuations of the player.

Fulham are looking to strengthen their defensive options ahead of the 2026-27 season, and Ait Boudlal has emerged as one of the young defenders on their shortlist. The club's continued interest suggests that the Moroccan remains a priority target despite Rennes' initial refusal to accept their offer. Ait Boudlal is reportedly interested in the possibility of moving to England, with the prospect of playing in the Premier League understood to be attractive to the young defender.

Fulham are also exploring alternative defensive targets, with the Premier League side reportedly submitting an offer for Brazilian defender Natan, who plays for Real Betis. The Cottagers have also been offered Argentine center-back Leonardo Balerdi by his agency, Unique Sports. Fulham's interest in several defenders highlights their determination to reinforce the position during the summer transfer window.

Rennes faces decision over Moroccan defender

For Rennes, the situation could lead to an important decision regarding one of their young defensive talents. The French club rejected Fulham's initial proposal, but continued negotiations could eventually result in a revised offer. Rennes will have to weigh the financial benefits of a potential transfer against the sporting value of retaining Ait Boudlal.

Fulham are expected to continue discussions with Rennes in an effort to find an agreement. The outcome may depend on the gap between the two clubs' valuations of the player. The Cottagers are looking to strengthen their defensive options ahead of the 2026-27 season, and Ait Boudlal has emerged as one of the young defenders on their shortlist.

Fulham are currently 11th in the Premier League table, with 52 points from 38 games. They have scored 47 goals and conceded 51 this season, leaving them 33 points behind leaders Arsenal. Their next fixture is against Nottingham Forest at home on February 10, 2027.

In related news, Fulham midfielder Tom Cairney is currently sidelined due to injury.

League standing (final 2025 table -- new season not yet under way): 11th in Premier League, 52 pts, 15W-7D-16L from 38 games, recent form WDLLW.

Goals this season: 47 scored, 51 conceded (-4 goal difference).

Title race: 33 points behind leaders Arsenal.

Next fixture: vs Nottingham Forest (at home, 2027-02-10) (16th in the table).

Currently sidelined: Tom Cairney.