Everton are preparing to make another move into Ligue 1 as manager David Moyes seeks to strengthen his attack during the January transfer window.
The club are understood to favour Rennes forward Esteban Lepaul over a renewed attempt to sign Folarin Balogun, despite competition from four Premier League rivals.
A deadline-day deal for Balogun fell through at the final moment, after Everton had already reached agreements to sell Beto and Iliman Ndiaye. The collapse left Moyes without the striker addition he had been pursuing and reduced his attacking options for the new season.
Everton have subsequently been relying heavily on Thierno Barry. The forward has scored three goals in six Premier League appearances during the 2026/27 campaign, but the club remain open to bringing in another striker when the transfer window reopens.
According to the latest update from TEAMtalk, Rennes forward Lepaul has emerged as Everton’s preferred target. The 25-year-old enjoyed an outstanding first season at Roazhon Park after moving from Angers, finishing 2025/26 with 20 Ligue 1 goals.
His form has also led to international recognition, with Lepaul breaking into the French national team. Rennes are under no immediate pressure to sell, however, as the striker is contracted to the club until 2030.
The French club are expected to demand about €50M before considering a transfer, making the proposed move a significant investment for Everton.
Everton are not the only Premier League club monitoring the player. Aston Villa, Brentford, Brighton and Leeds United are also competing for Lepaul’s signature, creating a five-way contest for one of Ligue 1’s leading forwards.
Moyes’ quick thinking is said to have given Everton an advantage over their domestic rivals. The club’s preference for Lepaul represents a change from their previous pursuit of Balogun, whose proposed move failed to materialise on deadline day.
With Beto and Iliman Ndiaye already set to leave and Balogun no longer secured, Everton’s need for attacking reinforcements has become more pressing. Barry’s early-season contribution has helped cover the shortage, but the club are now expected to revisit the striker market midway through the campaign.