Rennes reveal Samaras interest

Manchester City striker Georgios Samaras has attracted the interest of Rennes coach Pierre Dreossi, but the Frenchman doubts whether he will be able to prise the Greece international away from Eastlands this summer.

With Portsmouth target John Utaka seemingly on his way out of the Brittany club, Dreossi has turned his attention to bolstering his forward line.

Samaras, who has struggled for form since signing for City for £6m in January 2006, is among the many strikers he confesses his admiration for.

However, with City currently waiting for former Thai prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra to buy up a 75% stake and thus be able to confirm Sven-Goran Eriksson as their new manager, Dreossi fears Samaras may stay at Eastlands for the time being.

“I know him well,” said Dreossi.

“We have been following him for a long time. He is young, and is a player for the future.

“Unfortunately for us, the change in coaches at Manchester City means he will not be leaving them this summer.”

Utaka is believed to be close to securing a move to Portsmouth, but Dreossi revealed his club have not yet received a good enough offer for the Nigerian.

“John Utaka is susceptible to leave and is motivated to leave, so it will be difficult for him to return here,” added Dreossi.

“But the offers we have had are not sufficient.”

Portsmouth are thought to have lodged a bid of €10m for Utaka.