The Doucoure Dilemma
Liverpool’s summer transfer window has been nothing short of eventful. With a significant overhaul in the midfield department, the Merseyside club has been on the prowl for top-tier talent. While they’ve secured some notable names, the quest for a defensive midfield maestro continues. Enter Crystal Palace’s Cheick Doucoure.
A New-Look Liverpool Midfield
The departures of Fabinho and Jordan Henderson to the Saudi Pro League have left a void in Liverpool’s midfield. The exits of James Milner, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, and Naby Keita on free transfers further accentuated the need for reinforcements.
In response, Liverpool welcomed Alexis Mac Allister, Dominik Szoboszlai, and Wataru Endo from Brighton, RB Leipzig, and VfB Stuttgart. Yet, Jurgen Klopp’s eyes are set on another prize: Doucoure.
Is Cheick Doucoure worth pulling the trigger on at £70m?
I think yes, in this market. 🇲🇱 pic.twitter.com/a3kDYrHvFZ
— Anfield Sector (@AnfieldSector) August 25, 2023
Crystal Palace’s Stance on Doucoure
The South London club is no stranger to high-profile transfer interests. As the transfer window nears its conclusion, reports suggest that Crystal Palace has slapped a hefty £70m price tag on both Eberechi Eze and Cheick Doucoure. This strategic valuation is seen as a deterrent for potential suitors, including Manchester City and Liverpool.
In other news from Selhurst Park, Michael Olise has committed his future to Crystal Palace with a fresh four-year deal. This move comes amidst interest from Manchester City, who viewed him as a potential successor to Riyad Mahrez.
Doucoure’s Worth
Doucoure’s credentials are impressive. Ranking in the 94th percentile for interceptions among defensive midfielders in Europe’s elite leagues, he’s a force to be reckoned with. But with a contract running until 2027, his market value remains high, significantly more than the current €22.7m (£19.5m) estimation.
Will Liverpool Cough Up?
Having shown their financial muscle with a £110m bid for Moises Caicedo, Liverpool certainly has the means to meet Doucoure’s asking price. But whether they see value in such an investment remains to be seen.
