Sunderland in major contention to sign Doucoure after failed advanced talks
Sunderland could enter the race to sign Abdoulaye Doucoure this summer.
The Black Cats have made a fantastic start to the transfer window, spending close to £100million so far this summer.
Armand Lauriente is set to be Sunderland’s 7th signing this summer, after a £17.3m fee was agreed with Sassuolo.
Doucoure, 32, is looking for a new club after his contract at Everton expired this summer, after five years at Goodison Park.
Sunderland jump up betting odds after Al-Ettifaq deal falls through
Doucoure looked set to move to Al-Ettifaq this summer, after being offered £4m per year in Saudi Arabia.
However, with the Malian wanting £8m, the deal looks to have fallen through.
This has led to Premier League sides looking to keep Doucoure on British shores.
Gambling.com has revealed that Leeds United are the favourites to sign the midfielder at 2/1.
Sunderland are just behind at 9/4, followed by Burnley at 3/1 and Rangers at 4/1.
Doucoure can bring all-around dominance to Sunderland
The Wearsiders have signed a lot of African stars this summer, with five of their signings set to play at the African Cup of Nations in the winter.
Doucoure would add to this African core, but would not be one of those departing for the tournament, as he had confirmed in 2023 that he would not represent the country for the foreseeable future.
| Doucoure defensive stats 2024/25 | Total |
| Tackles per 90 | 1.68 |
| Blocks per 90 | 1.09 |
| Aerials won 90 | 1.05 |
The former Watford man has stepped up in big moments for the Toffees, including scoring the goal to keep them in the Premier League against Bournemouth in 2023.
This would be a significant signing for the Black Cats in their quest for survival.
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