Everton are reportedly looking for midfield reinforcements, with Benjamin Bourigeaud emerging as one of their top targets.
According to Tuttomercatoweb, Everton are among the clubs interested in the services of Benjamin Bourigeaud. The 28-year-old Rennes midfielder is facing an uncertain future at the club, with his current deal expiring at the end of next season. It has put a series of clubs on red alert, with the list including the likes of Leicester City and Fiorentina as well.
Formerly of RC Lens, Bourigeaud has been a part of Rennes for five years now. During his time at the club, the French midfielder has racked up 220 competitive appearances, establishing himself as a vital cog in the team’s midfield unit in the process.
A central midfielder by trade, the 28-year-old is rated highly due to his work ethic and ability to make life difficult for the opposing ball carrier. Bourigeaud is quite gifted in possession as well and is more than capable of offering the creative essence. He can even operate out wide, if necessary, thus making him a handy player to have for any manager.
Bourigeaud’s qualities have not gone unnoticed, with Everton considering a move for the Frenchman in the ongoing summer transfer window.
Everton’s midfield woes have been well documented in the recent past, with the club notably losing Fabian Delph and Gylfi Sigurdsson at the end of the season, whereas Donny van de Beek has returned to Manchester United following the culmination of his loan spell.
It has prompted Everton to look for midfield reinforcements this summer. Coach Frank Lampard is reportedly targeting Wolfsburg ace Aster Vranckx, but Benjamin Bourigeaud could be a far more realistic and cost-effective option. Not to mention, the 28-year-old offers significant experience at the highest level of football.
It could prove to be a valuable asset for Everton as they look to steady the ship following a disastrous 2021/22 campaign. It is also fair to point out that Bourigeaud’s contract expires at the end of next season, meaning the Frenchman is unlikely to cost a fortune either.
However, Everton must be wary of the competition, especially with fellow Premier League outfit Leicester City also involved in the chase. The Foxes are facing the risk of losing Youri Tielemans in the summer, which has forced Brendan Rodgers to go after Bourigeaud. However, which team comes out on top in the race to sign the Rennes midfielder remains to be seen.
