Rennes respond as Leeds and Everton set sights on Esteban Lepaul
Leeds United and Everton are both pushing to sign exciting Rennes striker Esteban Lepaul, sources have told Football Insider.
The pair of Premier League giants are both monitoring the 26-year-old, after an impressive spell at Rennes so far.
However, the Ligue 1 outfit are understood to be "relaxed" about the interest in their frontman at the moment, as they have him tied down until 2030, and can also offer Europa League football.
Sources say that Lepaul is also in no rush to leave, as he has just broken into the France squad at senior level for the first time.
Leeds and Everton are both in the market for new strikers, but a move to sign Lepaul is more likely to come next summer, rather than in the middle of the campaign.
The former Angers man netted 20 goals in Ligue 1 last term, and already has four strikes from his opening six games this time around.
Leeds and Everton must be patient for Esteban Lepaul
Lepaul's reputation has grown drastically in the last 12 months, as his move to Rennes has seen him find form.
He finished as the leading scorer in the French top flight last term, and is already on course for a similarly impressive tally this time around.
Premier League interest is inevitable for players who display that kind of form, but it is clear that both Leeds and Everton will have to show patience if they want to sign him.
With Rennes under no pressure to sell, another high-quality season in front of goal is only expected to drive Lepaul's price tag up
The pair of Premier League suitors are aware that next summer is likely to be their time to strike and secure a deal, but it will take a significant financial commitment.
Lepaul is perfectly happy at Rennes at the moment, and there is little chance of a move taking place this winter.
Leeds 'fear' losing Tarik Muharemovic
Former Manchester United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider earlier this week that Leeds already "fear" losing star centre-back Tarik Muharemovic soon.
The Bosnian only joined in the summer in a £34million deal, but he is already catching attention from the likes of Bayern Munich after a hugely impressive start.
Brown is clear that Leeds are in a "very strong position" to keep the 23-year-old long-term, but also has no doubt that the interest will provide an element of concern.
The defender is under contract at Elland Road until the summer of 2031, and has only enhanced both his reputation and his price tag with his displays so far.