Quentin Merlin in Rennes' sights: should OM really part with him?

Friends, summer promises to be quite eventful at the Commanderie. In recent days, Stade Rennais has doubled down on trying to lure Quentin Merlin, our left-back, to wear the Breton jersey. After Truffert's departure to Bournemouth for 17 million euros, Rennes is looking for a credible replacement and, apparently, they found their happiness with us. So, do we sell or not? Let’s take stock, and we also want your opinions!

A valuable player but important to the group

Having arrived from FC Nantes last summer, Quentin Merlin has already played 29 matches in all competitions with OM, and he has established himself as a regular in the left corridor, mainly as a wing-back in the famous 3-4-3. Are we underestimating his contribution? Only one goal, true, but his activity and versatility have often made the difference on the field. Some will say he still lacks a bit of consistency, but at 23, he clearly has a significant potential for improvement.

What do you think? Can we really do without him, given our dire need for defensive stability in recent seasons?

Financial stakes not to be overlooked

On the financial side, OM is not insensitive to a good offer. Merlin is valued at €15M, and his contract runs until 2028. Let's not fool ourselves, with the management's desire to reshape the squad after a frankly disappointing season, a capital gain on Merlin could help reinvest elsewhere. But selling a young international hopeful who is just starting to integrate, is it really a winning formula?

If we let him go to Rennes, who will hold down the left corridor? We know that the recruiting department is working on other files, but they will have to hit the mark quickly. Otherwise, we risk regretting this kind of departure, as has often been the case in recent years...

Should we resist or open the door?

Medhi Benatia, our new sporting director, is already talking with Rennes but doesn't intend to offload Merlin cheaply. We sense that OM is not closing any doors, everything will depend on the offered amount and the sports project. But we also need to ask ourselves within the group: is it the right time to part with a promising young player when we need stability and identity?

We want your opinion: is it time to sell Quentin Merlin? Would you be willing to take a nice check to try a new gamble, or should we keep a player who can still grow with the club? Let's meet in the comments to discuss, as usual!