Renewed contract for Doku at Rennes, Club Adds 70 Million Euro Release Clause

Rennes FC has renewed the contract of defender Abdoulaziz Doku until the end of the season, marking another successful signing for the club.

The 28-year-old centre-back signed his new deal with the club in June 2019 and has since made an impact on the pitch for the club, scoring six goals in 15 league appearances so far this season.

Doku's move to Rennes is seen as a significant coup by the club, who have been looking for a replacement for their ageing centre-backs in recent seasons.

"We are very happy with the decision to extend Doku's contract," said Rennes' manager, Didier Deschamps. "He has shown great potential in his last two years at the club and we believe he can play a big role next season."

The release clause for Doku was set at €40 million, which is now being increased to €70 million, making it the highest ever released contract in French football history.

This move comes just months after Rennes added another star player in the form of Alphonse Sagna, who joined from Real Madrid for €65 million in January.

With Doku joining Rennes, the club hopes to improve its defensive credentials and strengthen its defence ahead of the upcoming season.

"Abdoulaziz will be an important addition to our squad," said Deschamps. "His experience and skills will complement the team's strengths and help us achieve our goals."

In addition to Doku, Rennes also announced the signing of defender Kévin Menez, who has been loaned to Monaco for the rest of the season.

Overall, the renewed contract for Doku and the addition of key players like Sagna and Menez are positive developments for Rennes FC, who continue to build on their success under former manager Guillaume Van Gaal.

Rennes FC has a strong squad with plenty of talent at both ends of the pitch, but the club needs to secure the services of key players to compete at the top level of European football. With Doku's arrival, Rennes could become one of the top teams in France and beyond.