Report: Man City midfielder could be set for January exit

Stade Rennais Explore Claudio Echeverri Option Ahead of January Window

Stade Rennais are shaping their winter transfer strategy with a clear objective in mind, injecting greater creativity into a midfield that has often relied on structure rather than invention. As first reported by Ouest-France, the Ligue 1 side have explored the possibility of bringing in Claudio Echeverri, the highly rated Argentine playmaker currently contracted to Manchester City.

The January transfer window, opening on Thursday January 1, 2026, is expected to be relatively measured in Rennes, but targeted. Sitting sixth at the Christmas break, the Breton club believe that a technical attacking midfielder could provide the marginal gains required to sustain their European push.

Rennes Search For Creative Midfield Spark

Recruitment plans at Roazhon Park have been quietly advancing for weeks. As outlined by Ouest-France, Rennes are keen to “recruit a creative profile to complete its midfield and add technicality to its squad”. That brief has led them to survey options beyond France, with several foreign based players under consideration.

Among those names is Claudio Echeverri, the 19 year old Argentine international who joined Manchester City from River Plate in 2024 for close to €20 million. Viewed as one of South America’s most refined young creators, Echeverri represents the type of profile Rennes feel could unlock stubborn Ligue 1 defences.

Photo IMAGO

Claudio Echeverri And City Football Group Dynamics

Echeverri’s recent career has been unsettled. Loaned to Bayer Leverkusen last summer, his spell in Germany failed to gain momentum. As Ouest-France reported, his time there proved “not satisfactory”, with 11 appearances in total, including five in the Champions League, and just three starts. The loan has since been terminated.

While Rennes have registered interest, the structural reality of the City Football Group complicates matters. Girona, another CFG club, are said to be leading the race, a factor that gives the Spanish side a significant advantage. Rennes, therefore, face stiff competition despite their willingness to move.

Aware of the difficulty surrounding Echeverri, Rennes have sensibly activated multiple parallel options. The club understands that patience and flexibility are essential in January. As Ouest-France noted, “whatever the outcome for Echeverri, the club should welcome a reinforcement in this sector of the game”.

There are internal dynamics driving urgency. Glen Kamara has been encouraged to seek a move, while the January situation of Ludovic Blas remains one to monitor closely. These potential exits add weight to Rennes’ desire to secure a technically gifted midfielder capable of operating between the lines.

The Echeverri enquiry, therefore, reflects strategic thinking rather than opportunism. Rennes are positioning themselves for both immediate impact and long term value, even if this particular avenue proves difficult to complete.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

From a Manchester City supporter perspective, this report reads like a familiar chapter in the club’s modern talent management strategy. Claudio Echeverri was never signed for immediate first team integration. His recruitment was about securing elite potential early, trusting the City Football Group ecosystem to find the right environment for development.

The broken Leverkusen loan does not ring alarm bells. Many City prospects take time to find the correct tactical and cultural fit. What stands out is the consistency of demand. Rennes’ interest, alongside Girona’s stronger position, suggests Echeverri’s stock remains high across Europe.

City supporters will likely view Girona as the logical next step. The shared philosophy, controlled game model and proven pathway for CFG loanees make Spain an attractive setting. Rennes, while ambitious and well run, cannot offer the same structural alignment.

That said, the fact Rennes even entered the conversation underlines Echeverri’s perceived ceiling. If he flourishes elsewhere, City fans will see it as validation rather than regret. Development, not destination, remains the priority. In that sense, this report confirms that City’s long term planning around elite young talent continues to function exactly as intended.