Rennes spoil Southampton's midfield plans again after Glen Kamara snub | OneFootball

As Fabrizio Romano confirmed, Rennes has signed Southampton midfield target Ismael Kone. Notably, this is the second time the French club has derailed the Saints' plans this winter.

How often do you see a football club outclass a contemporary off-field, that too twice? Certainly, it isn't common, and if it has happened before, maybe once.

Now, as if entertainment felt missing in Southampton's transfer window so far, even this possibility hit them.

Remember, days ago, the Saints were keen on a winter move for Rennes midfielder Glen Kamara. Still, they had to return empty-handed after Saudi club Al Shabab took over negotiations with Rennes.

But, if a single transfer setback from Rennes wasn't enough, Southampton just took an even bigger smack to the chin.

After missing out on Kamara, Southampton had been vying for a similar profile player, Ismael Kone. Surprisingly, Rennes also held interest in the promising midfielder.

Now, various possibilities could have been possible here. But, say it Southampton's upset fate, the worse happened.

Rennes spoil Southampton's midfield plans again after Glen Kamara snub

As per journalist Matthew Scianitti, Kone declined Southampton's interest, preferring Rennes for a loan move.

To top it off, recently, Fabrizio Romano announced its game over for the Saints, saying: "Ismael Kone to Rennes, story confirmed and here we go! Contracts to be signed this afternoon and medical booked."

Lately, Rennes has spoiled Southampton's transfer plans in a way. Then also, the Saints can't be ungrateful to the French club for promising talent Albert Gronbaek.

Having debuted recently, in the Saints' 2-1 win against Ipswich, Gronbaek seemed an exciting addition under boss Juric. Though not that effective currently, he has the potential to make it to the top.

Otherwise, also, Southampton's current roster hosts a few ex-Rennes stars. Be it, forward Kamaldeen Sulemana or prodigy Lesley Ugochukwu, they have shown improvement recently.

For years, Rennes has been a talent factory and nothing could be more pleasing if they remain a helping hand to the Saints forever.

Hoping to see the synergistic bond between the two clubs thrive seamlessly.