Everton have launched talks over a potential swoop for Rennes midfield maestro James Lea-Siliki after seeing him impress in a friendly against them, according to L’Equipe.
The French publication claim in their print edition (31/07) that after seeing the 22-year-old star against the Toffees in a 4-1 win for the Ligue 1 side, Marco Silva’s team have made a move over a possible transfer move, with Portuguese side Benfica and German giants Borussia Dortmund also said to be in the hunt.
Lea-Siliki made 38 appearances for Rennes last season, netting three goals and chipping in with a further three assists, in what was his breakthrough campaign with the club with just two outings prior.
Good move for Everton?
The Toffees are lacking some creativity in the centre of the park, with the likes of Morgan Schneiderlin and Idrissa Gueye very defensive minded, and Lea-Siliki could prove to be the sort of player who Silva needs this summer.
His lack of game time for Rennes, having only really established himself last season, might be cause for concern, but having impressed against Everton in their friendly, the Portuguese manager can be confident that he is ready for the Premier League.
It all depends on what sort of price tag Rennes are demanding for his capture as to whether it would be a good deal or not, but on paper he looks like a decent capture.
This is Futbol rating: 7/10
Likely to happen?
Everton may well be interested in the midfielder but snapping up his signature is another matter entirely, especially with the likes of Dortmund said to be joining them in the chase.
Again, price could be the determining factor in this one, and with the Premier League money at their disposal, the Toffees might well have an advantage.
This is Futbol rating: 6/10