Eintracht Frankfurt have seen their opening bid for Senegalese defender Nobel Mendy rejected, with Rayo Vallecano unwilling to part ways with one of their most promising young talents.
According to journalist Matteo Moretto, the Bundesliga club submitted an offer worth around €15 million for the 21-year-old centre-back, but the proposal was immediately turned down by the La Liga side.
Frankfurt’s interest in Mendy has been longstanding. The Senegalese defender is regarded as one of the brightest young left-footed centre-backs in Europe and has been identified as a priority target as the German club looks to strengthen its defence.
However, Rayo Vallecano are under little pressure to sell. Mendy remains under contract until 2030, giving the Spanish club a strong negotiating position after an impressive campaign that saw them finish eighth in La Liga.
Frankfurt keeping alternative options open
While Mendy remains their primary target, Eintracht Frankfurt are also monitoring other defensive options.
Real Madrid youngster Víctor Valdepeñas continues to feature on the club’s shortlist, with Frankfurt maintaining their interest in the highly rated defender as they assess multiple candidates ahead of the new season.
Valdepeñas has been linked with a move to the Bundesliga for several months and remains a viable alternative should negotiations for Mendy prove difficult.
Rayo hold firm
Despite Frankfurt’s strong interest, Rayo Vallecano’s swift rejection of the opening offer signals their determination to retain the Senegalese defender or secure a significantly higher fee.
If Frankfurt are to complete a deal, they are expected to return with an improved proposal as they continue their pursuit of one of La Liga’s most exciting young defensive prospects.
