Liverpool have engaged in talks with Crystal Palace regarding a potential transfer of midfielder Cheick Doucoure, as Jurgen Klopp seeks to reinforce his midfield, as reported by the Daily Mail.
While the Reds have already acquired three midfielders, including Dominik Szoboszlai, Alexis Mac Allister, and Wataru Endo, Klopp is keen to secure another midfield option.
Liverpool’s midfield has seen the departure of five senior players this summer, including former captain Jordan Henderson, James Milner, Naby Keita, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, and Fabinho. As a result, they are currently facing a shortage in midfield numbers.
They have been linked with several midfielders, but Doucoure has become a key target as they aim to address their defensive midfield concerns, despite recently signing Endo from Stuttgart.
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Endo brings valuable Bundesliga experience and played a crucial role in helping Stuttgart avoid relegation last season. However, he is viewed as a short-term solution for Liverpool.
Endo made his Liverpool debut during a 3-1 victory over Bournemouth, entering the game in the second half as a substitute after Alexis Mac Allister received a straight red card for a challenge on Ryan Christie.
Liverpool are planning to appeal against Mac Allister’s red card, but Klopp is already exploring the possibility of adding another midfielder to his squad before the transfer window closes.
The Daily Mail reports that Liverpool have engaged in discussions with Crystal Palace regarding a potential transfer for Doucoure.
Liverpool’s interest in the 23-year-old has intensified after losing out on Moises Caicedo and Romeo Lavia to Chelsea.
Doucoure, who joined Palace from Lens for £22 million last summer, has made a positive impression at Selhurst Park. Consequently, Palace are not willing to let him go for a low fee.
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The report suggests that they would demand £70 million for the highly-rated midfielder’s departure this summer.
Last season, Doucoure made 35 appearances across all competitions for Palace, and they finished higher than Chelsea in the Premier League standings.
Securing Doucoure would be a significant coup for Liverpool, but it remains uncertain whether they can persuade Palace to sell before the transfer window closes on September 1st.
