Abdoulaye Doucoure seems set to leave Everton when his contract expires at the end of the season.
The 32-year-old has been a regular at Goodison Park since signing for the Blues from Watford in 2020.
The Mali international looks set to exit before the Toffees make the move to the Hill Dickinson Stadium next season with no movement on a new contract.
David Moyes was coy when asked about the situation after the 2-0 win over Southampton (18 May), and all signs point towards a departure after he waved goodbye on the pitch.
Mali international tips Doucoure to make Leeds move
Doucoure will have plenty of suitors if he departs Merseyside, one of which is expected to be newly-promoted Leeds United.
Daniel Farke is keen to bring Premier League experience to Elland Road to boost his side’s survival hopes, and the Toffees star fits the bill in terms of what they require.
Former Mali international and Doucoure’s compatriot Mahamadou N’Diaye has reacted to the news of a possible move to Yorkshire.
Speaking to Africa Foot (19 May), he said: “Doucouré is a top player who can continue his career in the Premier League with another club. Physically, still performing well and is one of the best in his position in Europe, a player who has a healthy lifestyle.
“He knows the Premier League well. He’s one of the most experienced players in the league. So, he could be a great addition to Leeds United. All depends on the club’s interest and his desire to stay in England.”
Doucoure may not feature at Bramley-Moore Dock (Credit: Imago)
Everton would regret allowing Doucoure to leave for Leeds
Although the Friedkin Group are set to back Moyes in the transfer window, allowing a star player to leave for free could prove disastrous.
If it goes pear-shaped and the Blues find themselves in another relegation battle, they could hand a drop zone rival a big advantage in the race to survive.
Stats (Premier League)DoucoureDoucoure’s stats this season.
It makes sense not to offer him a new deal as the Toffees need to move and find a younger, more complete attacking midfielder and the fact that Doucoure is on a high wage at Goodison, reportedly around the £120,000-a-week mark.
However, it will be a huge loss in terms of mentality and his ability to thrive in the biggest moments.
The ex-Hornets man was responsible for the goal that kept the L4 outfit in the top-flight on the final day in the 2022-23 season and has scored numerous other big strikes throughout his time on Merseyside.
However, it looks as though that is coming to an end and he will not get the chance to enter the new era with his teammates.
