Everton are on the lookout for Rennes forward Estéban Lepaul as they prepare for the January transfer window. As reported by TEAMtalk, the Merseysiders are currently leading the race for the 26-year-old, who has burst onto the scene as one of Ligue 1's top scorers.
Scouts from Everton, Leeds, and Aston Villa took notice of Lepoly over the summer, but it’s Everton who appear to be the most active suitors at this stage.
Lepaul’s career took an unconventional route. After leaving Lyon’s academy in 2020, he had to work his way up through the lower divisions of French football, even playing in the fifth tier as recently as 2022.
A breakthrough came with a move to Angers, where he scored ten goals and attracted interest from Rennes, who signed him in 2025. Since joining Rennes, Lepaul has kicked on to another level, netting an impressive 20 goals in his debut season.
This season, he’s maintained his scoring form, finding the back of the net three times in his first five outings.
His performances have not gone unnoticed by France's new head coach Zinedine Zidane, who has included Lepaul in the national squad for the first time, recognising the forward's rapid progress.
In just four years, Lepaul has gone from the fifth division to representing France at the highest level.
According to TEAMtalk, the interest from English clubs last summer prompted Rennes to offer Lepoly a long-term contract in a bid to retain one of their key players and strengthen their position ahead of potential negotiations.
However, extending his deal hasn’t deterred potential suitors.
Everton continue to monitor the situation closely and could revisit a transfer in January. Yet, no formal offers have been made yet, and much will hinge on Rennes’ willingness to part with the striker mid-season.
The competition for Lepaul’s signature could be fierce, with four other Premier League representatives keeping a close eye on his progress.
