Arsenal could be preparing a summer move for Watford midfielder Abdoulaye Doucoure. According to recent reports in the English media, the Hornets midfielder has confirmed that a whole host of Premier League clubs which includes the Gunners along with Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur are interested in securing his services this summer. However, if given the choice, he says that he would jump at the opportunity of making a switch to North London to play under Arsene Wenger. The French midfielder has arguably been the Hornets’ standout performer this season and has put in some sensational performances in this Premier League campaign. He is currently leading the Hertfordshire club’s goalscoring charts with seven goals to his name this term.
The 25-year-old has been linked with a move away from Vicarage Road after the current season draws to a close, but the Hertfordshire outfit are reportedly eager to tie him down to a new and improved long-term contract. In a recent interview, Doucoure revealed that he is still committed to Watford’s cause but would snub both Tottenham and Liverpool in favour of a move to North London to play under the guidance of Arsene Wenger. He was quoted to have said,
“It’s true that these clubs are interested,”
“But I’m at Watford for the moment and I want to finish my season well.”
When asked about which team is his preference, the 25-year-old said, “Arsenal, because of Arsene Wenger,”
With his future at Vicarage Road up in the air, let’s take a look at three potential replacements for the Hornets to consider in the near future.
Denis Zakaria
The 21-year-old midfielder has been terrific for Bundesliga side Borussia Mönchengladbach this season. He is highly versatile and can operate in a number of different positions across the midfield and defence. He can play as a defensive midfielder or in a more advanced role at the centre of the park. The Switzerland international can also operate as a centreback in defence which makes him an ideal asset for any squad. The Hornets will do well to prise him away from Germany as he can turn out to be a future superstar if given a nurturing environment to shine and display his talents.
Leander Dendoncker
The 22-year-old midfielder is currently plying his trade at RSC Anderlecht and has put in some strong displays for the Belgian giants this season. He has featured in 32 matches for Anderlecht this season across all competitions and has an assist to his name. Dendoncker has immense potential and could turn out to be an ideal asset under Javi Gracia if given the opportunity to make a switch to the Premier League.
Rodrigo Hernández
The 21-year-old has been in sensational form for Villarreal this season and has put in some eye-catching displays in the La Liga helping his side climb to 5th place in the league standings. The Spanish midfielder has made 32 appearances for the Yellow Submarine and has scored one goal and provided one assist in all competitions. He is one of the leading defensive midfielders in Spanish football and would be a good fit under Javi Gracia at Vicarage Road.
