Liverpool’s Joël Matip a target for Rennes in the event of Arthur Theate’s departure | OneFootball

Liverpool centre-back Joël Matip (32) is part of Stade Rennais’ shortlist to bolster their defensive options in the event that Arthur Theate leaves the Roazhon Park, according to a report this Sunday by L’Équipe.

The Belgium international is reportedly the subject of interest from RB Leipzig, who have lost El Chadaille Bitshiabu to injury and sold Josko Gvardiol to Manchester City. The Bundesliga side are yet to submit a bid and Theate started both of Rennes’ last two games, including today’s home draw against Le Havre. Fulham and Liverpool are also reportedly interested in Theate.

Should Theate leave the Bretons, it is expected that Rennes would dip into the market to replace him before the end of the transfer window on September 1st. L’Équipe understands that the former Cameroon international – who announced his international retirement amid conflict with the Cameroon FA – is one of the players Rennes are keeping an eye on. Matip is entering his final year of contract with Liverpool. He is part of the Reds’ squads that went on to win the 2019 Champions League and the 2020 Premier League title with Jürgen Klopp. With Ibrahima Konaté out through injury, the former Schalke centre-back is starting Liverpool’s away Premier League clash at Newcastle. The 32-year-old Matip is not expected to renew with the Reds.

GFFN | Bastien Cheval