Reported Manchester United transfer target Eduardo Camavinga is negotiating over a new contract extension at Rennes.
L’Equipe report Camavinga is ‘on track’ to sign a new deal which would extend his contract from 2022 to 2023.
This seems straightforward enough and a sensible play from Rennes. It is all about strengthening their hand at the negotiating table.
AS reported last month that Manchester United and Real Madrid are both keen on signing the France international, who is seen as a potential successor to Paul Pogba.
A new contract would kill off any prospects of United landing Camavinga in January, although this seemed unlikely in any case.
It simply means Rennes will not lose him for cheap next summer, when there is one year left on his deal as it currently stands.
Camavinga is still likely to be sold in the summer of 2021 – it will just be for a more substantial fee.
Special talent
Camavinga, 18, is France’s Jude Bellingham, a young defensive minded midfielder who is already a senior international.
He has two international caps and one goal, and 52 appearances for Rennes already, with two goals and three assists.
Real Madrid have shown the most significant interest in Camavinga to date and are considered the favourites to sign him.
However, AS reported Real are concerned by United’s plans to enter the race.
Rennes’ actions suggest they are bracing for a bidding war, and this could work in United’s favour.
Paul Pogba’s movement will have an impact too. If Real land Pogba, they will be less determined to sign Camavinga.
If he heads to Juventus for instance, Real’s determination to sign Camavinga will increase.
Pogba signing a new contract at United could work both ways. United may become less determined to sign Camavinga, or the club could use it, by tempting the teenager to join and play alongside a player he considers an role model.
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