‘A diamond’: De Bruyne blown away by reported Liverpool and Newcastle target

Kevin de Bruyne has hailed Jeremy Doku as a “diamond in the rough” while talking to Reuters after the reported Liverpool and Newcastle United target opened his Belgium account during Tuesday’s 5-1 thrashing of Iceland.

While the UEFA Nations League has yet to convince the masses of its worth in the European game, the competition has at least given a platform for some of the best young talent on the continent to show their skills on a bigger stage.

And, after Erling Haaland and Ansu Fati scored picturebook goals for Norway and Spain respectively, 18-year-old Doku found the net himself in stunning style.

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Cutting inside on his favoured right foot, the Anderlecht wonderkid fizzed a rocket shot into the top corner as Belgium cruised to a win over their Scandinavian opponents.

Now, with De Bruyne joining his growing list of admirers, the speculation surrounding Doku’s future may be about to enter overdrive.

“He is nimble, fast and can dribble,” the Manchester City talisman said after inspiring Belgium’s win with two pinpoint assists.

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“Of course he can sometimes make a mistake – but who doesn’t? He is a diamond in the rough.”

Doku might not be in the ‘rough’ for much longer.

Voetbal Krant reported in June that Newcastle are keen on the £18 million-rated winger, who has been compared to Eden Hazard and labelled an “exceptional talent” by Belgium boss Roberto Martinez.

It’s no secret Liverpool have been watching Doku for a number of years, with Jurgen Klopp believing Doku could be the new Sadio Mane (Nieuwsblad).

Speaking to Sport/Foot recently, Doku is convinced the Premier League champions will return if he continues to develop at such a remarkable rate.

In other news, 'Why would you': Ian Wright reacts to what he was reading about Leeds fans & Aston Villa