Leeds United need more than just a couple of signings this summer if they are to stand a chance of Premier League survival and it means, Leeds will need loans and a couple of free transfers.
Leeds need a new goalkeeper, a centre-back, a left-back and cover on both sides, two midfielders, a no.10 that can improve on Brenden Aaronson, Manor Solomon permanently and a proven Premier League no.9.
Plenty to do. If Leeds went out and spent £30m on each of those, they would easily break PSR rules and therefore, The Whites need a couple of loans and free transfers to complement the big-money arrivals.
So, landing a couple of experienced free transfers could be crucial in helping Leeds build a squad able to survive in the Premier League without breaking PSR rules. One potential signing is Abdoulaye Doucoure.
Everton make Abdoulaye Doucoure announcement today
Leeds are in a two-horse race with Roma to sign Doucoure, with the Mali international’s contract due to expire at the end of the season. Mahamadou N’Diaye says Doucoure should consider a move to Leeds.
David Moyes said over the weekend he is unsure about Doucoure’s future but Everton have now made an announcement. The Toffees have confirmed that Doucoure will leave Everton at the end of the season.
They posted on X: “Abdoulaye Doucoure will leave Everton when his current contract expires at the end of next month.”
Abdoulaye Doucoure will leave Everton when his current contract expires at the end of next month.
The obstacles facing Leeds in pursuit of Abdoulaye Doucoure
Leeds’ interest in Doucoure comes as no surprise. The Mali international is a player just 23 games shy of clocking up 300 Premier League appearances following his time at both Watford and current side Everton.
In that time, he has scored goals and created moments of magic. On a free transfer, he would be a solid bit of business for Leeds – but there are two crucial obstacles preventing Leeds from doing a deal.
Firstly, he is believed to be on £120,000 a week at Everton – a wage which would blow open thewage structure. The other is Roma’s interest, who are owned by Everton’s new owners, The Friedkin Group.
