Newcastle United and West Ham United have been linked with the 25-year-old.
Fast forward two months and the 25-year-old has not yet left the Ligue 1 club, but recent comments might suggest that it won’t be to either Premier League side if he does.
Lille, according to Mercato 365, are the only side to have bid for him so far this summer, and Malcuit, speaking to France Football, would seemingly jump at the chance to work alongside coach Marcelo Bielsa at Stade Pierre-Mauroy.
“The Lille project is attractive, especially with a coach like Marcelo Bielsa – everyone wants to work with him. He is known worldwide for helping players to overcome their limitations.
“Obviously, I’m interested and I want to work with Marcelo Bielsa, that’s clear.”
If Lille do lodge an improved offer for the versatile Malcuit, who can play in defence and attack, then it will be very hard for Newcastle or the Hammers to convince him, if either English club are indeed interested.
It hasn’t been a great summer for either Newcastle or West Ham on the transfer front so far.
Both clubs have been linked to a host of players but Rafael Benitez and Slaven Bilic have yet to make major moves in the market.
Malcuit, rated at around £8.8 million according to L’Equipe, would be a useful addition, given his versatility and promise, but it would appear as if he has eyes for another club.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
