Saudi Club Takes Aim at Key Everton Player
By Marley Pope
With the January transfer window coming to a close in the next few days, Everton has made little noise amid financial constraints and an ownership group attempting to complete a takeover of the club.
There have been rumors surrounding Everton's interest in United youngster Hannibal Mejbri, but he ultimately signed on loan with Sevilla with a buy option of 20 million euros.
In recent days reports have stated Arnaut Danjuma's exit is a possibility as the winger on loan from Villarreal has not seen much game time and has frequently been left on the bench for other attacking options Dwight Mcneil and Jack Harrison.
According to Fabrizio Romano, Saudi Club Al Ettifaq has made approaches to sign midfielder
Abdoulaye Doucoure as a replacement for former Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson.
Henderson's time with Ettifaq was covered in controversy and public criticism, where he reached an agreement to leave the club and sign for Ajax.
Doucoure leads the team in goals with 6 and is a vital piece to how manager Sean Dyche wants to play. He covers lots of ground with his relentless pressing ability, and he gets into dangerous positions high up the field to produce high-quality chances.
The 31-year-old signed an extension with Everton until 2025 last Novmeber. In recent games, it is clear Doucoure's absence has been felt by the performances of the squad, and his new injury will keep him off the pitch for several more games.
It seems to be a no-brainer to not let Doucoure go, but Everton has a chance to turn a profit since Saudi clubs are willing to throw high price tags for their acquisitions. Everton sold winger Demarai Gray to Ettifaq last September for a reported 8 million euros.
Any stable club would not consider selling their top goal scorer on the season, but because Everton is facing numerous issues, including the largest point deduction in Premier League history, it is not out of the question.
If Everton do decide to go with the sale, a replacement will need to be secured as well. This is easier said than done, but I think Everton should not consider the offer unless a large sale price comes to the forefront.