Everton striker transfer likely unfounded

Despite several reports, it appears that David Henen will not be leaving Merseyside for France, or any other place, in the January transfer window. The youngster has been linked with a move to the French team after he has been unable to break into the first team and supposedly rejected a new contract from Everton.

The Liverpool Echo has said that the forward may go on loan in January with the aim of improving his skill. The 20-year old arrived at Goodison under Roberto Martinez’s reign, first on a loan deal and then a permanent transfer. The Echo also claims that Henen has not rejected a contract.

Belgian football journalist Sven Claes reported today that Ligue 1 club LOSC Lilles were interested in Henen.

Claes had reported a month ago that there was plenty of loan interest in the player from French and Dutch clubs. Belgian media sources then confirmed that a fortnight ago.

With so little time at Goodison, Henen moving on always seemed unlikely. New manager Ronald Koeman has not been hasty about making decisions on players not named Oumar Niasse and likely wants to see how the forward develops, especially with some regular first team action at a club.

The player himself tweeted earlier this morning to talk about his love for the club.

It is also worth noting that if Romelu Lukaku does leave Everton this summer then having additional forwards for competition in the offseason will be critical. Henen is likely not the answer, but he could fill a role with the club next year depending on how the squad’s depth at forward pans out.