Rennes ace Adrien Truffert admits he’s ‘aware’ of interest from Premier League outfit Everton as speculation rages regarding a potential departure from French football, speaking to RMC Sport.
The Toffees might have spent £19 million to bring Vitaliy Mykolenko to Goodison Park in the January transfer window but that does not mean Everton are done and dusted as far as new left-backs are concerned.
Mykolenko is the only senior, left-sided defender in Frank Lampard’s squad after all – as long as you don’t include the versatile Ben Godfrey and the unproven Niels Nkounkou of course.
20-year-old Truffert is someone to keep an eye on over the summer, then, after providing three goals and three assists for arguably the most exciting, free-flowing side in France during a breakthrough 2021/22 campaign.
Everton face Ajax battle for Rennes ace Adrien Truffert
“Everton and Ajax interested (in me)? Yes, I was aware,” admits the France U21 international. “Obviously, it’s flattering to have clubs that are interested in you.”
When pressed further on his future at Rennes, swashbuckling Truffert did point out that he is under contract at Roazhon Park until the summer of 2025. What’s more, Rennes qualified for Europe with a fourth place finish last term, while Everton avoided relegation by the skin of their teeth.
“Honestly, the question (about leaving) does not necessarily arise,” the youngster adds.
“I have a contract until 2025 with Stade Rennes. I do not have to ask myself (if I’m leaving). I’ll ask myself that later, with my parents and my agents. My parents are super important.”
The Athletic pointed out earlier this week, while discussing Everton’s interest in Anderlecht assist-machine Sergio Gomez, that a Toffees side under pressure from Financial Fair Play are unlikely to prioritise a new left-back with so many other positions in need of reinforcement.
“He’s a young player who I know very well,” former Rennes coach Julien Stephan said of Truffert. “He has huge potential and a very good left foot.
“He’s very intelligent, has the right mentality and the versatility to play in different positions. He has all the qualities needed to keep progressing and to break through in the near future.”
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