RC Lens are set to demand a fee close to €25 million to allow Cheick Doucoure to depart, with Crystal Palace interested.
According to L’Equipe, Crystal Palace are reportedly chasing Cheick Doucoure in this window, and Lens are set to demand around €25 million to allow the midfielder to depart the club. However, the player likes the idea of moving to Selhurst Park, and a transfer is now a matter of agreement between the two sides.
Patrick Vieira positively impacted Crystal Palace supporters after bringing a different style of football to the London club. Finally, after years of floating around in the Premier League without any major relevance, the Eagles found a style under the Frenchman with which they could be identified.
Hence, the summer window is an important period for Vieira to expand this brand of football for which they need specific players to join them. As a major blow, they will not be able to hold on to Conor Gallagher, who was key to their style. A replacement for the Englishman will be at the top of the priority list.
At the same time, there are several areas to focus upon, including the No. 6 position. The Frenchman has experimented with Cheickou Kouyate and Will Hughes in the role, but Crystal Palace could do with an upgrade in the position.
Manager Vieira needs a player he can mould in the role and Crystal Palace are interested in Cheick Doucoure for the position. The Eagles have lodged an enquiry with Lens to understand the details for a possible transfer. There is a willingness from the Ligue 1 side to facilitate a move, but they are demanding €25 million to let the Malian leave.
While it’s a big fee for a 22-year-old yet to truly shine, it certainly cannot pose a problem for Palace. If Vieira deems the player ideal for his system, the London side will likely oblige and make arrangements to get the transfer over the line. The only problem could be the competition, as Arsenal are also interested in the player.
Doucoure did well in the No.6 role at Lens, and Vieira likes the idea of the Malian in his side. He may not be an immediate starter many may expect him to be. However, the manager would help the player develop steadily and integrate him into the system as the season progresses.
