According to L’Equipe, Crystal Palace have agreed personal terms with Arsenal and Tottenham target Cheick Doucoure ahead of a move to the Premier League.
What’s the story?
Well, this is a big step for Crystal Palace, but a blow for Arsenal and Tottenham.
L’Equipe believe the south Londoners have agreed a salary with Doucoure, and now, the Eagles just need to reach an agreement with RC Lens in regards to a fee.
The French news outlet add that the Ligue 1 side want €25m (£21m) for the Mali international, who is also a target for Everton and Frank Lampard.
Interestingly, the update comes just a few days after the Daily Mail claimed Crystal Palace were close to a deal for Doucoure, so it seems as if things are moving in a positive direction for Patrick Vieira.
The news comes after the 22-year-old made 37 appearances in all competitions for RC Lens last season, scoring one goal while also providing four assists.
Vieira is said to have faith in Doucoure, and believes he can shine in the Premier League.
Having been compared to the likes of Fabinho, we see no reason why the Malian can’t excel on these shores.
Crystal Palace could beat Arsenal & Tottenham to a gem
In our view, the signing of Doucoure would be a real coup for Crystal Palace.
At the age of just 22, the RC Lens No.28 is already playing at a very high level, and has also been described as “one of the best” in France by his teammate Seko Fofana.
Under an ideal mentor in Vieira, and among many French speaking players at Selhurst Park, everything looks to be in place for Doucoure to excel at Crystal Palace.
After losing Conor Gallagher, this would be the perfect response from the Eagles – keep an eye on the situation, as there could soon be a significant update on a fee being agreed.
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