Rennes' Ghana prospect to replace Mensah

Stade Rennais FC have signed Ghana defender John Boye to replace his international team-mate John Mensah at the heart of the Route de Lorient club's back line.

Mensah succession
Boye has joined initially on a season's loan from Ghanaian club Heart of Lions, with Rennes manager Pierre Dréossi describing the 21-year-old as "one for the future". Although Boye will be given time to settle in French football, it is hoped he can fill the gap left by Mensah's departure earlier this summer for Ligue 1 titleholders Olympique Lyonnais. The newcomer made his national-team debut in June in a FIFA World Cup qualifier against Gabon. Rennes will meet FC Twente of the Netherlands in their UEFA Cup first-round tie on 18 September and 2 October.