Stade Rennais is now at the heart of a possible large-scale operation, after young Moroccan striker YassirZabiri shone during his loan to Racing Santander. His performances, already compared to those of KylianMbappé or LamineYamal, have attracted the interest of several major European clubs, including FCBarcelona, RealMadrid and ManchesterCity, according to Spanish sources and a former coach of the striker.
Zabiri, recruited by Rennes in February 2026 from Famalicão, is linked to the Breton club until June 2029. He was loaned to Racing Santander for the 2026/27 season, without a purchase option, which leaves Rennes in full possession of its contractual rights. In Spain, the 21-year-old scored eight goals in eleven La Liga matches, demonstrating an eye for goal, mobility and movement intelligence that made him one of the offensive revelations of the season.
MimounMokhtari, former coach of UnionTouarga and AcadémieMohammedVI, told Africafoot that he was convinced that Zabiri's progression was only just beginning. He has no doubts about the player's ability to reach new levels and raised the possibility of him joining a club of caliber such as Barça, RealMadrid or ManchesterCity. Mokhtari added that he was not surprised by the rumors of interest from Barça, pointing out that Zabiri's current statistics bring him closer to the performance of players like Mbappé or Yamal.
Catalan sporting director Deco would have closely followed Zabiri's performances, according to Spanish media Fichajes, which could indicate a concrete approach on the part of Barça. However, no official offer has been confirmed yet. Rennes, for its part, is in an advantageous position: with a player whose popularity continues to rise and increasingly prestigious suitors, the Breton club could consider a lucrative sale during the next summer transfer window.
At present, it remains to be seen whether Barca will materialize their interest or whether other major European teams will seize the opportunity. Whatever the case, Stade Rennais has a major asset within it, and the future of YassirZabiri could well mark the start of a new era for the Breton club.