Liverpool’s Pursuit of Doucoure: The Latest Developments

In the midst of the summer transfer window’s final days, Liverpool’s interest in Crystal Palace’s standout midfielder, Cheick Doucoure, has intensified. With the clock ticking, Anfield’s strategists are making their moves.

Joining Crystal Palace from Lens in the summer of 2022 for a sum of £21 million, Doucoure quickly established himself as a pivotal figure in the heart of the Palace setup. His inaugural season saw him make 35 appearances across various competitions, contributing with three assists. Such was his influence that he outshone teammates Marc Guehi and Michael Olise, clinching the Player of the Season accolade for the 2022-23 campaign.

Liverpool’s Midfield Conundrum

The Reds have faced challenges in their midfield recruitment this summer. Their pursuits of Moises Caicedo and Romeo Lavia ended in disappointment, with both talents opting for Chelsea after prolonged negotiations. This has amplified Liverpool’s need for bolstering their midfield, especially after the recent acquisition of Wataru Endo from Stuttgart.

However, Doucoure’s current valuation stands at a hefty £70 million, a figure that Liverpool must consider as they weigh their options.

Anfield’s Current State of Play

Liverpool’s season has commenced on a positive note, securing four points from their opening two Premier League fixtures. Yet, the departure of key midfielders such as Fabinho, Jordan Henderson, Naby Keita, James Milner, and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain has left a noticeable void. Doucoure, with his defensive prowess and a contract extending till June 2027, could be the solution they’re seeking.

Profile:

• Name: Cheick Doucouré
• Birth: 08/01/2000
• Gender: Male
• Height: 180cm
• Country: Mali
• Current Club: RC Lens
• League: Ligue 1, France
• Position: Defensive Midfielder, Box-to-box Midfielder
• Preferred Foot: Right
• Rating: 7.2/10
• Potential Ability: 8/10
• Current Ability: 7.2/10
• Ranking: 14th

Overview:

Cheick Doucouré, a 22-year-old midfielder hailing from Bamako, Mali, has rapidly become an integral part of RC Lens. His breakout season was during the 2018/19 Ligue 2 campaign, where he featured in a total of 34 games across all competitions. Today, he’s an ever-present figure in the team, showcasing his development as a player with every match.

Playing Style:

Doucouré’s style is reminiscent of a box-to-box midfielder. He is active on both ends of the pitch, often seen dropping deep to defend near or even inside the penalty area when necessary. In attacking scenarios, he pushes forward, supporting the attack, circulating the ball, and adding to the numbers. This makes him a pivotal player in both defensive and offensive transitions.

Physical Attributes:

Standing at 1.80m and weighing around 75kg, Doucouré boasts an impressive athletic build. His physique is complemented by well-developed upper and lower muscles. He is strong, agile, quick, and energetic, attributes that give him a distinct advantage on the field. His athleticism and physical prowess make him a player of interest, not just for his current team but for scouts worldwide.

Technical and Mental Skills:

Beyond his physicality, Doucouré is proficient with the ball. He displays good technical abilities, whether it’s receiving, dribbling, or passing. His intelligence on the field is evident, often showcasing quick thinking, impressive awareness, and vision. His concentration and defensive awareness allow him to proactively disrupt the opposition and retain possession effectively.

Tactical Skills (out of 10):

• Zone Coverage: 8.3
• Ability to Lose Marker: 6.9
• Positioning: 7.6
• Control of The Midfield: 7.4
• Off The Ball: 7.8
• Break Up The Play: 7.5
• Read The Game: 7.3
• Vision: 7.2
• Tactical Awareness: 7.4

Conclusion:

Cheick Doucouré is an incredibly underrated talent emerging from France. His blend of physical prowess, technical skills, and tactical understanding makes him a player to watch. As he continues to develop and refine his skills, there’s no doubt that he will be a sought-after talent in the footballing world.

Source: Scouting Report