St Etienne are looking to buttress their squad following their return to the top flight and have targeted disgruntled forward Piquionne.
The 25-year-old, who interested Portsmouth earlier in the year, has become disenchanted at Rennes after being singled out for abuse by the club's supporters.
He is now looking to leave during the summer and could be offered a lifeline by St Etienne, who met with Rennes officials on Friday.
It is understood St Etienne are prepared to offer Rennes two options with regard to Piquionne, either a permanent deal or a season-long loan.
Meanwhile, St Etienne are still contemplating a move for Lens defender Zoumana Camara, who spent last season on loan at Leeds United.
