West Ham have been linked with a move for Stade Rennais defender Adrien Truffert recently and he could be the next Theo Hernandez in David Moyes’ side.
According to French news outlet L’Equipe, West Ham, Everton and Leicester City have all enquired about signing the 20-year-old, who established himself as a regular at Roazhon Park last season.
With Arthur Masuaku reportedly set to leave the London Stadium and Aaron Cresswell set to turn 33 next season, it was perhaps always likely that Moyes would look to recruit a left-back this summer and Truffert could be the ideal man.
FB Ref suggests that the French defender excels going forward, particularly impressing in terms of progressive carries, shot-creating actions and progressive passes, while he is also strong at the back, with an impressive blocking rate.
The website suggests that Truffert’s style of play is very similar to that of Hernandez, and if the Stade Rennais man were to perform at anywhere near the level of the AC Milan ace at West Ham next season, then he would be a superb addition.
Do you want West Ham to sign Truffert?
Last season saw Hernandez make 32 appearances in Serie A for I Rossoneri, in which he contributed an impressive five goals and six assists, averaging a 7.16 rating from WhoScored for his performances.
Truffert meanwhile, contributed three goals and two assists in a strong season with Les Rouge et Noir, so clearly doesn’t lack attacking quality.
Former Rennes coach Julien Stephan was full of praise for Truffert in 2020, saying:
“He’s a young player who I know very well. He has huge potential and a very good left foot.
“He’s very intelligent, has the right mentality and the versatility to play in different positions. He has all the qualities needed to keep progressing and to break through in the near future.”
Considering Truffert is only 20, he has plenty of time to adapt and grow in the Premier League, so signing him now might be a smart move by GSB, especially if he can develop to the same extent as Hernandez, who is now valued at £77m after his incredible performances with AC Milan.
