Leeds handed Esteban Lepaul transfer reality check ahead of January

Esteban Lepaul's future is becoming a highly talked-about topic amid interest from Leeds United.

A striker signing was mooted for Daniel Farke's side in the recent summer window, but investments instead went elsewhere.

Wingers were prioritised with Jean Matteo-Bahoya arriving in LS11 to replace the outgoing loan of Wilfried Gnonto.

Target Lepaul ended last season as Ligue 1's top goalscorer, picking up the golden boot award; showcasing would be an interesting pick-up.

Previously, Lepaul's situation has been "one to watch," with the Whites not alone in their pursuit.

And now an update on the likelihood of securing a transfer in the winter window has emerged out of France.

How likely are Leeds to secure the signing of Esteban Lepaul

If Leeds are planning on swooping for Lepaul in January, they may already need to have plan B in place.

Taking the Frenchman out of Rennes will not be an easy feat, at least in the winter window.

According to outlet Media Sportif, Rennes are unwilling to let Lepaul depart before the season ends, using their participation in Europe as their selling point to keep him.

However, a move in the summer of 2027 has not been ruled out, with the Ligue 1 side open to talking about his future then.

Leeds, though, are said to be "increasing their pressure" to sign the forward, with Everton also in the mix.

With just a few months until the window opens, this may be one to continue to keep watch on, especially to see if Rennes' stance changes.

But with Lepaul only recently signing a new contract, while he is not agitating to depart, even if he pushed to do so, he would have no leverage.

Why Esteban Lepaul to Leeds makes sense

The future of Lukas Nmecha continues to be up in the air, with the German receiving few minutes at Elland Road.

Additionally, his contract runs out at the end of the 2026-27 season, with the Whites potentially considering whether to cash in during January to receive at least some money for the forward.

If that is to be the case, Leeds would need to recruit a replacement, as Dominic Calvert-Lewin will not be able to hold down the fort on his own.

Lepaul's arrival would add competition to the position, with the forward clearly possessing a knack for goals.

The LS11 side will have to convince him, though, as he may lean towards Everton with a higher likelihood of him starting each week.