Everton Target Prolific 26-Year-Old Striker For January Move: Should They Go After Him?

Everton Target Prolific 26-Year-Old Striker For January Move: Should They Go After Him? Everton have emerged as the leading Premier League contenders to sign a prolific Rennes striker, with interest growing ahead of the January transfer window. According to TEAMtalk journalist Graeme Bailey , Everton, Leeds United and Aston Villa monitored Esteban Lepaul during the summer. Brentford and Brighton have joined the wider scouting picture, although Everton currently hold the strongest interest. From France’s lower leagues to Rennes Lepaul’s rise has been remarkable. After leaving Lyon’s youth system in 2020, the French forward rebuilt his career away from the spotlight before reaching the top flight with Angers. He scored 10 goals for Angers, convincing Rennes to secure his services in 2025. The 26-year-old then enjoyed an outstanding debut campaign in Brittany, scoring 20 goals and attracting attention from several English clubs. His early-season form has maintained that momentum, with three goals in his first five league appearances. That return helped earn him a France call-up from new national team boss Zinedine Zidane. Rennes have responded to growing interest by securing Lepaul on a long-term contract. Consequently, Everton could face a difficult negotiation if they decide to formalise their interest in January. Can Everton convince Rennes to sell their leading striker? ISTANBUL, TURKEY – AUGUST 2: Anthony Rouault of Rennes interacts with his teammate Esteban Lepaul during the during the pre-season friendly match between Galatasaray SK and Rennes at Rams Park Stadium on August 2, 2026 in Istanbul, Turkey. (Photo by Ahmad Mora/Getty Images) David Moyes would have good reason to consider Lepaul. Everton need reliable goals, and the Frenchman has demonstrated his ability to deliver consistently after climbing through the divisions. His penalty-box instincts could complement Everton’s direct attacking approach, while his movement would give teammates a dependable target during transitions and crosses. However, Premier League defenders would present a tougher test than Ligue 1 opposition, so Everton must assess whether his scoring rate can translate. The financial question matters just as much. Rennes have little reason to sell a forward who has become central to their plans, particularly after handing him a long-term deal. Everton would need an attractive offer and a convincing sporting proposal. The Friedkin Group’s reported openness to selling a controlling stake in Everton adds another consideration. Any ownership uncertainty could complicate January planning, although it does not automatically rule out investment. Everton should pursue Lepaul if their recruitment team believes his finishing, movement and physical qualities suit Moyes’ system. Yet they must avoid paying an inflated fee simply because several rivals have taken notice. A structured offer with achievable performance-related bonuses could help bridge the gap. Everton need goals, but they cannot afford to treat one impressive season as a guarantee of future success.