Man Utd and Newcastle in transfer battle for Faitout Maouassa as Rennes’ 21-year-old defensive prodigy impresses scouts
MANCHESTER UNITED are set to rival Newcastle in the race to land Rennes defensive prodigy Faitout Maouassa.
The versatile left-back has excelled for his modest French club this season, inspiring them to third in Ligue 1.
And reports in Paris claim both United and the newly-rich Magpies have enquired about possible deals for the £10million-rated starlet this summer.
Maouassa has been ever-present for Rennes this season, scoring three goals in 32 appearances.
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The 21-year-old can also operate on the left side of midfield or as a left winger - fittingly for a player whose first name translates as "Do It All".
Newcastle have reignited their interest after they had a £7million bid rejected for him in January 2019.
Maouassa said soon afterwards that he dreamed about playing in the Premier League, but still felt too young to cross the Channel.
But he just has a year left on his contract with Brittany-based Rennes.
And even if they secure a shock Champions League place once the coronavirus-hit season resumes, they will struggle to resist a £10m-plus offer from Old Trafford or St James' Park.
The Paris-born player has won 40 caps for France's junior sides from Under-17 through to Under-21.
However he has been offered the chance to play for the DR Congo's senior team, with his parents hailing from the African state.