Skysports.com reports Manchester City and Sunderland have sent scouts to check on Rennes' Rod Fanni. The 28-year-old full-back has shot to prominence since joining Rennes in 2007, with the likes of Everton and West Ham United reported to have expressed an interest in his services in the recent past.

Fanni has also forced his way into the France national side during his time at Route de Lorient.

The highly-rated defender is contracted to Rennes until 2012, but could be lured to England for the right price.