Al Ain turn attention to Ekoko

Al Ain are pursuing Stade Rennais striker Jires Kembo Ekoko after negotiations with Arsenal’s Park Chu-young and Lyon’s Michel Bastos fell through.

Ekoko, 24, from the Democratic Republic of Congo, came through the Clairefontaine Academy to score nine goals in 98 appearances for Rennes since 2006. He has represented France at U21 level with three goals in 13 appearances.

Qatari club Lekhwiya had an offer rejected for the player, but Al Ain, who need to fill vacancies left by Yassir Al Qahtani and Ignaccio Scocco, could meet the €6-7 million (Dh27.64) valuation. Lille were reportedly also after the player if they couldn’t secure the services of Ryan Mendes.