Latest Developments:
- Stade Rennais left-back Adrien Truffert has been likened to former Toffees fan favourite and Frenchman Lucas Digne.
- David Moyes is reportedly an admirer of the 23-year-old.
- Truffert starred at the 2024 Paris Olympics for Thierry Henry’s France.
Whisper+ Analysis:
Authenticity (3.5/5): Everton want to close the deal by deadline
Rennes academy product Truffert has been linked with a move to Everton over the winter, as the club seeks much-needed competition for the club’s only senior left-back, Vitaliy Mykolenko.
According to the Daily Mail, Moyes is pushing to land the Frenchman in England, with the source also noting of previous interest from Manchester United and Liverpool in the defender.
Value (3/5): Digne 2.0 would be on the books
The Belgium-born Rennes product is highly rated in Ligue 1, with a Transfermarkt value of £12.47m. Although Moyes is keen on securing him on loan, Rennes may be inclined to sell sooner rather than later, given that he enters the final year of his three-year contract this summer.
Suitability (4/5): Boosting the left flank
David Moyes’ Everton have found form in their last three games, winning each to climb nine points clear of the relegation zone. The addition of a strong left-back will not only lift morale but also reinforce their push for a top-half Premier League finish.
Upgrade (3/5): Raising standards within
For Everton, Truffert’s presence would mean natural competition for Mykolenko, pushing them both to raise their levels. What the Toffees need now is defensive stability and a strong presence on the flanks, both of which Truffert can readily provide.
Logic (4/5): A natural step up
A move from Ligue 1 to the Premier League is no-brainer, especially for a talent like Truffert, who brings a wealth of experience at just 23. With over 170 appearances for Rennes, this transfer would mark a natural progression in his career.
Whisper+ Verdict: 17.5/25
Moyes appears increasingly confident in Everton’s chances of steering clear of the relegation zone as the season winds down. Truffert’s arrival would provide a crucial boost for a squad that has yet to secure any winter reinforcements. However, with the transfer deadline looming, time is quickly running out.
