According to Butfootballclub, St. Etienne are lining up a new deal for Everton target Denis Bouanga as they look to fend off interest from the Merseyside club.
Bouanga has been heavily linked with a move away from the club this summer.
Buzzsport in France claimed Rennes have already seen a £9 million bid turned down.
Everton, however, are willing to offer £13.5 million for the Gabon international winger and St. Etienne are now pulling out the stops to retain him.
Butfootballclub claim Everton manager Carlo Ancelotti is lining up a bid, prompting the French club to look at improving his current deal with a significant pay rise.
Bouanga’s exisiting contract at St. Etienne expires in 2023.
Everton must look at adding extra quality in their push for the Premier League top four.
The Toffees looked toothless in their recent 1-0 defeat at Tottenham Hotspur, while they only managed to score once against bottom club Norwich City.
In Dominic Clavert-Lewin and Richarlison, the Toffees boast a potent strike duo. However, Carlo Ancelotti’s side are in dire need of extra creativity from deep.
Bouanga, 25, has enjoyed a fine campaign following his move from minnows Nimes last summer, posting 12 goals and five assists from the wing.
The Gabon left winger is quick, skilful and importantly a threat in the final third.
If Everton harbour hopes of signing him this summer, then the Merseyside club may have to act quickly with his St. Etienne seemingly desperate to keep hold of him.
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