According to Goal, Arsenal target Cheick Doucoure is now set to sign a five-year contract with Crystal Palace.
What’s the story?
Well, it was said that Patrick Vieira made the 22-year-old his No.1 target this summer, and the south Londoners are now close to finalising a deal with RC Lens.
A fee of £22m has been agreed with the Ligue 1 side, and Doucoure has already shook hands on personal terms with the Eagles.
Crystal Palace initially saw a bid worth €17m (£15m) rejected by RC Lens, although an agreement has now been reached after that offer was increased.
It means Vieira looks set to beat Arsenal to Doucoure – according to the Mirror, the Gunners were keen to bring the Mali international to the Emirates Stadium.
Interestingly, Doucoure rejected the offer of a new contract from RC Lens in favour of a move to England, so he’s clearly very keen to experience life in the Premier League.
It is a significant step up for a player who is just 22 years of age, although Vieira supposedly believes the Malian has what it takes to shine in England’s top-flight.
In 37 appearances last season, Doucoure scored one goal while also providing four assists.
Arsenal could envy Crystal Palace
If Doucoure lives up to the hype and becomes a reliable performer in the Premier League, Mikel Arteta may kick himself that he didn’t match Crystal Palace’s bid.
The RC Lens No.28 has been described as an “extraordinary” player, as well as “one of the best” in France.
To receive these plaudits at the age of just 22 speaks volumes about Doucoure’s talent, and with Vieira mentoring him, the sky really is the limit for the Bamako-born midfielder in SE25.
Undoubtedly, Doucoure has a huge task on his hands to replace Conor Gallagher, although with all things considered, he seems to be a fine player who will help to improve Crystal Palace.
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