Everton Release Doucoure on Free Transfer: Leeds Eye Shock Coup
Everton have officially confirmed that Abdoulaye Doucoure will depart Goodison Park this summer on a free transfer, sending ripples through the Premier League and beyond. The 30-year-old midfielder has been a mainstay in Sean Dyche’s side, but the Toffees’ reshuffle means Doucoure is now available at no fee.
Leeds United have quietly emerged as one of the front-runners in the race for Doucoure’s signature. With Marcelo Bielsa’s legacy still fresh and a fresh managerial appointment expected, The Whites need experienced heads to steady the ship after last season’s relegation battle.
From a financial standpoint, a free transfer is a rare opportunity for Leeds, who face an uphill task recruiting across multiple positions. Bringing in Doucoure without a fee could free up vital funds for other targets, making this one of the most intriguing low-cost options of the window.
Why Doucoure Melds Perfectly with Leeds’ Survival Strategy
Leeds are in dire need of Premier League-proven midfielders to add grit and leadership in the middle of the park. To avoid another relegation fight, the club has to bolster its engine room, and few players combine work-rate and technical skill like Doucoure.
In my view, his arrival could be transformational. With his ability to break up play and drive the ball forward, he complements Leeds’ high-intensity style while offering seasoned judgment in crucial moments. It’s a shrewd move that could pay immediate dividends.
Editor’s opinion: Too many of Leeds’ recent signings have been gambles. Doucoure represents a low-risk, high-reward solution—precisely the kind of calculated investment a club like Leeds needs right now.
Salary Demands Under Scrutiny
Reports indicate that Doucoure is demanding around £160,000 a week to commit to his next club, equating to roughly £8 million per season. Such figures understandably raise eyebrows for a 30-year-old midfielder without a transfer fee involved.
Leeds will have to weigh up whether stretching their wage structure for a free signing is sensible. While £160k a week for Premier League experience is eye-catching, it could limit funds elsewhere or create wage disparity within the squad.
Forget Saudi, Say Insiders
Despite reported interest from Saudi clubs prepared to meet his financial terms outright, former Mali international Mahamadou N’Diaye believes Doucoure should remain in England. “He still has quality to offer in the Premier League,” N’Diaye told local outlets. “Leeds would be a perfect stage for him to shine again.”
From a sporting perspective, staying in a top-five European league is more appealing long-term than chasing one final payday. If Doucoure truly values his legacy over a short-term windfall, Leeds’ project – coupled with his existing reputation in English football – might just prove irresistible.
