Report: Canadian midfielder Kone joining Rennes on loan

Canadian midfielder Ismael Kone is leaving Marseille to join fellow Ligue 1 side Rennes on an initial loan until the end of the season, according to transfer insider Fabrizio Romano.

The deal, expected to be finalized prior to the French league's 5 p.m. ET deadline, is for €1 million up front. Rennes have the option to make the move permanent for an additional €14 million this summer, adds Romano.

That clause is contingent on Rennes avoiding relegation, according to TSN's Matthew Scianitti. They're currently 15th in France's top flight.

Kone, capped 25 times by Canada, was linked with the likes of Fiorentina and Valencia during the transfer window. Premier League outfit Southampton also inquired, but he turned down a potential move, Scianitti adds.

The 22-year-old, who only joined Marseille from Watford last summer, has been unable to establish himself as a regular contributor in his first season at the club. He's started just three league matches and compiled 360 minutes.

He's also been publicly rebuked by Marseille manager Roberto De Zerbi.

"We wanted this player, he's very strong, he's a good lad, but … over the last few months, he hasn't shown me that he's capable of being part of this project," De Zerbi said last month. "He's got a lot of competition."

He'll also face competition for playing time at Rennes, who have been one of France's most active teams in the January window. The club's biggest move thus far saw it sign Seko Fofana, a veteran midfielder who can occupy the same role as Kone, from Al-Nassr for a reported €20 million.