News Focus
- Esteban Lepaul leads Ligue 1 with 19 goals this season
- Atletico Madrid and Napoli have made enquiries for the 26-year-old
- Rennes have set a €30 million price tag for the French striker
- Domestic clubs are unlikely to meet the fee due to financial problems
- Champions League qualification could help Rennes keep their star man
Esteban Lepaul has fired 19 goals this term to sit top of the Ligue 1 scoring charts. The 26-year-old looks certain to win the Golden Boot, though he did not earn a nomination for the UNFP Awards.
Despite this snub, his form has drawn attention from big clubs across Europe. Foot Mercato reports that both Atletico Madrid and Napoli are tracking the Stade Rennais forward.
Lepaul’s goals have put the Breton side in the race for a Champions League spot. Qualifying for that competition might help the French club keep their key player, but this now appears a tough task.
The club is considering offering him a pay rise to extend his stay. However, Atletico Madrid have already made contact, and Napoli have followed with their own enquiry.
Other European sides are also watching the situation. Yet interest from within France remains low. Most Ligue 1 teams face money troubles, so Rennes’ €30 million asking price may prove too high for domestic buyers.