L’Equipe are reporting that Rennes have entertained the prospect of signing AC Milan centre-forward Olivier Giroud (36) and Chelsea striker Romelu Lukaku (30).
The Bretons were in the market for a tall and physical forward to bolster their attacking force for him to compete with Arnaud Kalimuendo and compensate for Martin Terrier’s absence. Les Rouge et Noir eventually signed Hatayspor striker Bertuğ Yildirim.
Rennes previously considered signing a more experienced and proven goalscorer in Giroud. Signing the France international is reportedly the dream of François Pinault, the luxury mogul who owns the Ligue 1 club. The latter’s pursuit of the AC Milan man was short-lived as it became clear Rennes did not have the arguments to bring Giroud back into the French top flight.
L’Equipe understands that Rennes then considered the signing of out-of-favour Chelsea striker Romelu Lukaku. The Belgian international returned to West London upon the end of his loan deal to Inter Milan. The outlet adds that Rennes Sporting Director Florian Maurice made contact with an agent to sound out Lukaku’s intentions. The former Everton and Manchester United centre-forward reportedly politely declined the opportunity to join Bruno Genesio’s squad. Lukaku eventually joined AS Roma on loan.
GFFN | Bastien Cheval
