Liverpool have made initial contact regarding the potential signing of Crystal Palace midfielder Cheick Doucoure, as stated by French outlet RMC Sport.
The Reds have already brought in three midfielders during this transfer window, including Alexis Mac Allister, Dominik Szoboszlai, and Wandaru Endu, but they are now in pursuit of another top-notch defensive midfielder.
According to RMC Sport, Doucoure is on Liverpool’s radar as a potential target. However, the report doesn’t specify which Liverpool representatives have been in touch.
It’s worth noting that signing Doucoure is expected to be a costly affair. Palace are reportedly uninterested in letting him go unless they receive an offer exceeding £52 million from interested clubs.
Doucoure’s performances since joining Palace last summer have somewhat gone unnoticed. This season, he has consistently played the full 90 minutes in all three games and has excelled in his role.
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The Malian midfielder has an impressive 88% pass completion rate. He’s been winning close to 2 tackles per game and making more than 7 ball recoveries. Additionally, he’s been successful in nearly 50% of his ground and aerial duels.
Liverpool currently lacks a standout player in the No. 6 role following the departures of Fabinho, Jordan Henderson, and James Milner.
While Mac Allister and Endo have filled in, the former is more of a creative player. Doucoure would be a significant upgrade over Endo in the defensive midfield position.
Given his strong debut season with Palace last year and his young age of 23, he could potentially be a long-term addition to Liverpool.
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The Reds currently have financial resources available, especially after their recent attempt to sign Moises Caicedo for a British record fee earlier this month.
This means they should have no trouble meeting Palace’s asking price for Doucoure if they are genuinely interested in him.
While Thiago Alcantara is another option within the Liverpool squad who could potentially play in the No. 6 role, his frequent injuries throughout his career make him a less reliable choice in this position.
