Leeds United have reportedly enquired about Rennes star Djaoui Cissé.
A rising star in French football, the 22-year-old has emerged as one of the most exciting prospects in Ligue 1.
The classy midfielder was a surprise package at the UEFA European Under-21 Championship last summer, standing out in a star-studded France team.
He has made 18 appearances in the French top flight this term and his development does not appear to have flown under the radar.
Djaoui Cisse has enjoyed a swift rise to prominence with Rennes.placeholder image
Djaoui Cisse has enjoyed a swift rise to prominence with Rennes. | JEAN-FRANCOIS MONIER/AFP via Getty Images
Leeds United linked with midfielder
Cissé was linked with West Ham United last summer and according to Media Foot, is now on the radar of Leeds.
The Whites are said to have enquired about the France youth international with the summer window creeping closer.
No decision is thought to have been made over the future of the midfielder, who is also thought to be of interest to German outfits Bayer Leverkusen and Stuttgart.
Djaoui Cisse has impressed on the international stage with France Under-21s.placeholder image
Djaoui Cisse has impressed on the international stage with France Under-21s. | Christian Hofer/Getty Images
Djaoui Cissé’s profile
Last summer, The Athletic compiled a report on Cisse’s exploits at the UEFA European Under-21 Championship.
An excerpt read: “At 6ft 2in (188cm), Cisse is happy to put in a challenge, but also has the poise to pirouette away from tackles in midfield and find a pass.
“His frame at the moment is more lanky than well-built, with long legs contributing a lot to his height. Even so, he has shown in Ligue 1 that he can ride challenges and use both feet to get out of trouble.”
Leeds have enjoyed success doing business with Rennes before, having signed Brazilian wing wizard Raphinha from the French club in 2020.
If the Whites manage to avoid relegation to the Championship, there will be a determination to raise the floor and the ceiling of the squad.
Another season of Premier League money being secured will most likely prompt more investment in Daniel Farke’s squad, which is currently on course to stay afloat.