Everton may well return for Abdoulaye Doucoure in January.
Watford decided enough was enough on Saturday evening, announcing the departure of manager Javi Gracia after more than 18 months in charge.
Gracia was landed as Marco Silva’s replacement in January 2018, and whilst he enjoyed a decent first season and took Watford to the FA Cup final, this term has been a struggle.
Watford have picked up just one point so far this season, and the Hornets have decided the time is right to replace him, bringing back Quique Sanchez Flores for a second spell as boss.
Everton may be interest in the news, as Gracia’s exit may just tempt midfielder Abdoulaye Doucoure into considering his future and moving on in 2020.
Gracia – as quoted by the Daily Mail – fought hard to keep Doucoure at Vicarage Road, but with the Spaniard gone, Everton may think this is a chance to strike and finally land their man.
Last month, RMC Sport reported that Everton failed with a late €40million (£36million) move for Doucoure, but were ready to return with a new bid in January in order to bolster their midfield.
Everton have now seen Watford struggle so far this season, and with an early managerial change, the Toffees may well feel there is a window of opportunity to prise Doucoure away from the club.
Everton’s goal is European football, and that matches up with what Doucoure wants but is too far away from, whilst the chance to play under Marco Silva again may be appealing, having worked together at Watford in the past.
There is of course a chance that Sanchez Flores can turn things around at Watford before the January transfer window, but Everton have a chance to sell that they’re a team moving forward with a settled manager and an exciting squad.
Whilst no move is imminent given that the transfer window is closed, Everton may well see Watford’s situation and be preparing themselves for a charm offensive towards Doucoure already, taking any glimmer of hope as a major boost.
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