Hans Hateboer is a free agent after his contract with Stade Rennes expired this summer. FC Groningen director Frank van Mosselveld said he understood that Hateboer is building a house in the area, and supporters make the connection. Van Mosselveld added that this is a rumour and nothing more than that. He confirmed there is contact, but nothing more than that. Van Mosselveld also stated that a potential deal is not excluded.

Dutch international Hans Hateboer, aged 31, is reportedly attracting renewed interest from Groningen, the club where he started his professional career. Currently playing for Rennes, Hateboer is a target for Groningen, who are eager to bring back the former Atalanta player. This interest from Groningen aligns with Hateboer being considered as a potential candidate for a move to Sassuolo, a team looking to bolster their right-back position. Despite Sassuolo's interest, Groningen's enthusiasm to re-sign Hateboer underscores their commitment to reclaiming the player who began his professional journey with them. Hateboer's contract with Rennes is valid until June 2026, and his market value is estimated by Transfermarkt to be €2.50 million.