Rennes' truth about Samuel Umtiti's situation

In recent days, some French media reported that the Rennes board had ruled out signing Samuel Umtiti after the defender failed to pass his medical.

However, the coach of the French side gave a press conference in the last few hours and admitted that these rumours are not true: "I regret the false information that has come out, I feel sorry for Sam, because he did not come for a medical examination in any case.

"And less a test that would have not been conclusive. It damages our image, my image, because I also have a commitment to him, and I wanted to say that what has been said is really a bit toxic and very regrettable," said Bruno Genesio.

The possibility of Umtiti signing for Rennes in this transfer window is still open. It remains to be seen if the negotiations between Barcelona and the French club's board finally materialise.

The Catalan club are looking to sell him permanently as the 28-year-old defender is not in Xavi Hernandez's plans for the pre-season, while Rennes are looking for a loan with an option to buy. There could be news in the next few hours.