David Moyes on the sidelines at Everton, with Abdoulaye Doumbia in action for BK Hacken
David Moyes on the sidelines at Everton, with Abdoulaye Doumbia in action for BK Hacken
The 19-year-old BK Hacken sensation has caught the eye of a number of clubs across Europe, and ois now being heavily tipped to make a move to the Premier League.
So far this season, he has made 27 appearances across all competitions, scored two goals and provided three assists from his role deep in the Swedish outfit's midfield.
As I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider's Transfer Insider podcast, Everton are leading Sunderland and Coventry as the three English clubs in the race for Doumbia.
A number of clubs across Europe, including Celtic up in Scotland, are also believed to be keeping tabs on the midfielder's performances after he caught the eye for Hacken.
There is now a growing belief that Doumbia is ready to make the step to the Premier League, and while he is still young, there are high hopes for his long-term development.
Why do Everton want to sign Abdoulaye Doumbia?
Football Insider revealed during the summer that David Moyes was pushing for the addition of new midfielders to his Everton squad, with the position seen as a priority.
The Toffees completed the signings of Hayden Hackney and Christian Norgaard during the summer window, but remain keen to add potential to their options.
Doumbia's performances in Sweden have alerted Everton and their Premier League rivals to his availability, and they could be prepared to lure him away in January.
Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: "You've got Everton, as well as Sunderland and Coventry all said to be keen on signing Doumbia in January.
"That move to the Premier League is likely to be something that would appeal to him, and he might be ready to make that step up now.
"He's impressed a number of clubs with his performances in Sweden, and clubs have been keeping a close eye on his progress. He's done very well for Hacken since his arrival there last January.
"So you'd have to say those Premier League clubs would be in a good position to do a deal if they decide to make a move for Doumbia."
Which other clubs are interested in Doumbia?
As previously mentioned, Everton and their Premier League rivals are far from the only clubs interested in signing Doumbia as he continues to attract high-profile suitors.
Primarily deployed in a deeper role, the Ivory Coast-born star can play across the midfield, and his performances have caught the eye of watching scouts.
Football Insider revealed on 8 November that Doumbia has emerged as a target for Celtic ahead of the January transfer window as they aim to bolster their midfield.
Martin O'Neill is determined to bolster his squad, with the addition of a new midfielder having been identified as a priority after they missed out on targets in the summer.
O'Neill has become concerned about his current options, as well as a clear lack of quality depth in the position, and a number of potential targets are now being considered.