Everton fan favorite nearing Saudi move

Abdoulaye Doucouré was always a player that Everton fans loved, but now he will take his charisma and talents over to Saudi Arabia.
Everton FC v Southampton FC - Premier League
Everton FC v Southampton FC - Premier League | Chris Brunskill/Fantasista/GettyImages

Everton's preseason performances have been less than ideal to say the least, and some diehard fans are rightfully worrying about the lack of first-team signings, which is an issue that Moyes has talked about on several occasions.

One player Everton decided not to bring back for this season was Abdoulaye Doucouré. While the player's future was initially unclear at the start of this offseason, it looks like the Mali international is heading to the Saudi Pro League.

Everton are currently in dire need of midfield depth, and some fans are rightfully asking if not bringing back the fan favorite could have some deep repercussions. Doucouré played 166 matches for everything, tallying 35 goal contributions.

Tactically, he was perhaps one of the most important players on the pitch during Sean Dyche's tenure with the squad. Doucouré played as a shadow striker, and while that wasn't his natural position, his pressing and tenacity made him a valuable asset.

While it is true that Everton have several players who can play CAM, what the Toffees don't have is a solid group of CMs. Harrison Armstrong is certainly an option, but he's young and won't provide enough cover by himself.

Unfortunately, it seems like Everton will have the deal with the consequences of their actions. Doucouré wasn't a revolutionary player, but at least he was Premier League quality, which is something that this current roster currently lacks. It's not time to push the panic button yet, but perhaps it's time to dust it off the shelf.

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