Crystal Palace are ready to take the final steps in securing Cheick Doucoure, as the midfielder remains Patrick Vieira’s priority.
According to Foot Mercato, Crystal Palace are inching closer to signing Cheick Doucoure from RC Lens. The midfielder has been the priority for Patrick Vieira for several weeks, and now it seems the London side are very close to securing the Malian as they intensify their efforts to lure him to the club.
Cheick Doucoure has been one of the hidden stars in Ligue 1. The Malian has been consistently deployed in a holding midfield role at RC Lens, where he has made a positive impression, which has come to Crystal Palace’s attention.
Patrick Vieira had an impressive first season at the helm at Crystal Palace. The Frenchman visibly changed the style of football at the club plus put his faith in many of the young stars in the team. The former Arsenal captain earned plaudits for his setup and helped develop some rough diamonds last term.
The likes of Michael Olise, Marc Guehi, Eberechi Eze and Tyrick Mitchell largely benefitted from Vieira’s ideas, and the manager seems keen to add more players of a young age group. While there are plenty of gaps to be filled in the squad, the club have identified the holding midfield role as a priority.
Doucoure has been considered Crystal Palace’s main target for the holding midfield position this summer. The London side reportedly made an offer earlier, but the French club are seeking more money and knocked the bid back as they seek €20 million for the 22-year-old.
Personal terms between Doucoure and Crystal Palace have already been agreed upon recently. The London side are looking to finalise the deal and possibly reach an agreement over a fee with Lens in the coming time as they ramp up their efforts to get the deal over the line. With all parties open to finishing the transfer, it’s a matter of time before the midfielder wears an Eagles shirt.
Plenty of positive things are expected from Doucoure next season, as the Malian looks to take his opportunity in the Premier League with both arms. He has the potential to be a fantastic signing for Crystal Palace as they seek to strengthen the squad further.
