Rennes agree €25m deal for Mayenda
Stade Rennais have reached an agreement with Sunderland to sign forward Eliezer Mayenda in a transfer worth up to €25 million. The French club will pay €22 million upfront, with a further €3 million available in performance-related add-ons.
The move brings the 21-year-old Spain youth international back to Ligue 1, where he first emerged as a professional. Mayenda is a graduate of the FC Sochaux-Montbéliard academy, having made his senior debut for the club at a record-breaking age to become the youngest player ever to represent them in competitive action.
Limited opportunities at Sunderland
Mayenda crossed the Channel to join Sunderland, where he made 20 appearances across all competitions. He opened his account with a goal in the Black Cats’ first match upon their return to the top flight last season, but he struggled to command a regular starting role throughout his tenure at the Stadium of Light.
The forward’s difficulty in securing consistent minutes prompted his return to France, with Rennes moving decisively to capture his signature as they look to strengthen their attacking options.
Europa League assignment
Mayenda joins a Rennes side preparing for UEFA Europa League football under manager Franck Haise. The club secured their place in the competition after navigating recent seasons that Haise is tasked with moving beyond as he seeks to re-establish them as regular European contenders.
The Breton club view the 21-year-old as part of their squad rebuild as they aim to shake off recent struggles and compete on multiple fronts. At his age, Mayenda offers significant developmental potential and versatility in the final third.
The agreement concludes the player’s brief stint in English football and represents significant outgoing business for Sunderland, who will bank a substantial fee for the academy product.