Liverpool have been handed a blow in their pursuit of Rennes midfielder Benjamin Andre.
The Reds had identified the 27-year-old as a viable alternative to Naby Keita, who looks set to remain at RB Leipzig, despite being linked with a move to Anfield for much of the summer.
Andre only penned a new deal with the Ligue 1 side back in June, and the Frenchman insists he is solely focused on his future at Rennes.
“There is a project here that everyone knows,” Andre is quoted as saying by the Sunday Express when asked why he signed a five-year deal with the French side.
"I was at one point in my career where I had to make decisions, I had one year left.
"There were other options but [the fact] I am no longer the youngster made me want to continue with the Rennes.
"[I want] to go as high as possible [with Rennes this season].
"Our first games will be very important. It is the results that will set the objectives."
Benjamin André: Won possession in the midfield third more times (214) than any other player in Ligue 1 last season https://t.co/nu8dBff4xE pic.twitter.com/4p5GnR1pze
— WhoScored.com (@WhoScored) August 4, 2017
Andre played a vital role in Rennes’ opening weekend 1-1 draw with Troyes on Saturday.
