Leeds United could see Middle East clubs gazump a potential contract offer for Abdoulaye Doucoure, TEAMtalk has said.
Leeds United have already been linked with a whole host of players ahead of the summer window. A busy few months lays ahead of LUFC as they prepare for a rise to the Premier League.
Daniel Farke will likely be keen to add some top flight experience to his ranks where possible, though shrewd deals from overseas could have fruit to bear.
LUFC - Leeds United boss Daniel Farke
Image courtesy of: CRAIG BROUGH/REUTERS.
However, a cheaper way of adding experienced players to the ranks could be through free transfers. Numerous eye-catching assets will be available for nothing this summer and among those linked with the Whites recently has been departing Everton midfielder Abdoulaye Doucoure.
Now though, TEAMtalk has reported that Leeds United may well be outgunned if they are to make a move for Doucoure.
It is said that teams from the Middle East – likely Saudi Arabia – are interested in the 32-year-old midfielder and would be willing to offer lucrative financial terms, potentially pricing LUFC out of a deal despite no transfer fee being required.
It remains to be seen what the stance of Doucoure is though, with other clubs sure to be aware of his situation going into the summer.
Significant Premier League experience
If Leeds United want to sign someone with significant Premier League experience with little concern about their age, Doucoure could be a fine option.
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He would instantly become one of the more senior players in the dressing room given that he turns 33 next January, but with that comes a wealth of top-flight experience. Doucoure has played 277 Premier League games across spells with Everton and Watford, also making appearances in Ligue 1 and La Liga earlier in his career.
leeds united, Leeds United could be priced out of free transfer swoop for departing Premier League midfielder
Image courtesy of: DAVID KLEIN/REUTERS.
Doucoure is a hard-working and physical midfield but has shown a liking for popping up in the right areas with key goals too. He has 36 goals and 25 assists to his name in the Premier League overall.
Could Leeds United find better options?
Interest from the Middle East could see Leeds United outgunned in terms of the wages they can offer Doucoure.
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However, some might argue the Whites can find better options in the transfer market this summer.
LUFC will want experience but ideally, they can sign younger players with stronger years ahead of them who still boast pedigree at the level or an equivalent one overseas. At 32, Doucoure is unlikely to hit a new level and on a shorter deal, it could be that handsome wages are involved.
While not struggling financially, Leeds United may feel such expenditure would be put to better use elsewhere.