Leeds United learn Doucoure demands as transfer on the cards
Leeds United are reportedly eyeing a move for Abdoulaye Doucoure as he’s set to leave Everton this summer.
The Mali international’s contract at Goodison Park is running out in June and the club even confirmed that he will be leaving.
That means any club keen on securing the 32-year-old’s services this summer will not have to shell out a transfer fee.
Doucoure wants to be paid £8m per year in wages
Doucoure, despite his age, does not appear to be short on suitors in the upcoming transfer window.
According to TEAMtalk, a lucrative move to Saudi Arabia is understood to be on the cards for the midfielder.
There is also interest in his services from clubs in the UAE and they could also offer big money.
| Competition | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
| Premier League | 32 | 3 | 2 |
Al-Ettifaq, Al-Qadsiah, NEOM FC and Shabab Al-Ahli are all interested in him.
It’s understood that the Mali international wants wages to the tune of £8million per year, which works out to £160k per week.
Doucoure was lauded by Carlo Ancelotti as well, back when he was the Everton manager.
The Italian said: “He was really intelligent defensively, he understood what to do and also with the ball he had some acceleration that were good for our counter-attacks.”
Leeds United must avoid signing Doucoure this summer
Leeds must avoid signing Doucoure due to several critical factors that outweigh his potential contributions.
At 32, Doucoure’s age raises concerns about his longevity and ability to sustain the high-intensity, pressing style demanded by Daniel Farke’s system in the Premier League.
His wage demands are a significant financial burden for a newly promoted club, especially when cost-effective alternatives are available for less.
Doucoure’s recent performances at Everton have been inconsistent, with his goal-scoring output and defensive reliability declining, failing to justify such a high salary.
Furthermore, interest from lucrative Saudi and UAE clubs, including Al-Ettifaq and Shabab Al-Ahli, suggests his priorities may lean toward financial gain over competitive ambition, potentially impacting his commitment.
Leeds should prioritise younger, hungrier players who align with their long-term vision and budget, avoiding the risk of an expensive, short-term signing whose form and fitness may not meet the demands of a gruelling Premier League campaign.