According to a recent report by RMC Sport (translated by the Liverpool Echo), Everton have made an improved offer of around €40m for Watford midfielder Abdoulaye Doucoure. However, the same source has claimed that the Hornets have turned down the bid as they are looking to retain their prized asset beyond this summer.
Doucoure’s Remarkable Spell In The English Top-Flight
The 26-year-old enjoyed another impressive season at Vicarage Road after he put in a string of match-winning displays for Javi Gracia’s side in the 2018-19 Premier League campaign. The Rennes youth product featured in 40 matches for the Hornets last season, finding the back of the net on five occasions while creating six assists across all competitions.
He has also represented France at various youth levels but is yet to earn his first international cap for his nation. Since sealing a move from Stade Rennais in 2016, Doucoure has been a dominant presence in the Watford midfield and has enjoyed a fruitful spell with them in the Premier League over the past few years.
At 26, the Hornets midfield general is versatile enough to assume the duties of both an attacking or a defensive midfielder which makes him a really useful asset for Gracia. Thus, it is no surprise that the Hertfordshire outfit are acting stubborn when it comes to cashing in on the French talent. Furthermore, Gracia won’t have any time to replace Doucoure as the English transfer window is set to be slammed shut tomorrow.
What Does The French Midfield Ace Offer On The Pitch?
Doucoure is a powerhouse in midfield and can make some driving runs in the opposition half. He is a tireless runner with or without the ball and can be a good outlet for his teammates on the counter. The Frenchman has incredible upper-body strength which helps him win a lot of 50-50 aerial duels against the opposition. He also doesn’t shy away from doing the dirty, defensive work at the centre of the park so that he can provide adequate cover for the Hornets backline.
Is Doucoure The Right Choice For The Toffees?
The addition of a midfielder of Doucoure’s skillset would undeniably bolster Marco Silva’s midfield options at Goodison Park. He is a talent who will add a lot of energy to the Everton midfield and could form a productive partnership with Andre Gomes at the Merseyside club.
Hence, the French playmaker will be a fantastic signing for the Toffees if they can find a way to convince Watford to sanction a deal before tomorrow’s deadline.
