Rennes president Nicolas Holveck says reported Everton and Southampton target Mohammed Salisu wants to move to the Premier League, Footmercato report.
The Real Valladolid defender has been linked with a move this summer.
A report in the Mirror last weekend cited Everton’s interest, while Southampton and Atletico Madrid are also named as suitors for Salisu who has a bargain £10 million release clause.
Holveck, meanwhile, claims Rennes have an agreement to sign Salisu. However, the club president argues against forcing a player into moving when his heart is set elsewhere.
“Salisu is giving priority to the Premier League for now. Forcing a player despite agreements between clubs is something we don’t necessarily want to do. We have done everything to convince him. He would like to go to the Premier League. We want players who want to come. This is not a reproach to Salisu, who during our discussions, seemed very sincere. We’re not going to force him,” Holveck explained.
Salisu is a Ghana international, standing at 6ft 3inch.
At 21, he is young, energetic and full of potential. For both Everton and Southampton, he represents an excellent opportunity for a modest price in today’s market.
Everton, despite impressing against Liverpool, must strengthen their defence.
The Toffees have conceded 46 Premier League goals this season. Yerry Mina and Michael Keane have struggled at times, and a further option makes sense.
Southampton, on the other hand, could be looking at options to push Jack Stephens, Jan Bednarek and Kevin Danso with the latter still inexperienced.
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