Everton and Crystal Palace are likely to be busy in the summer transfer window as they look to bolster their ranks for a more fruitful season next time round.
Everton currently sit 15th in the Premier League table and, though they look to have done enough to survive, they’ll want to do better next time.
Meanwhile, Crystal Palace are 12th in the table and, though they’re not completely out of the picture to finish in the European places, it’s a tough ask.
Everton and Palace will also have to be mindful of other clubs eyeing their players. For instance, Adam Wharton and Marc Guehi are highly sought after, while Jarrad Branthwaite is also in demand.
Both Everton and Palace are now said to be looking at a £13million-rated midfield talent who has been likened to Manchester City and Barcelona icon Yaya Toure.
Everton, Crystal Palace and Brighton keen on Juventus target Mahamadou Doumbia
Everton and Crystal Palace, along with Brighton & Hove Albion, have shown interest in Royal Antwerp gem Mahamadou Doumbia, according to Africafoot.
Although Palace and Brighton have been linked with Doumbia for a number of weeks, Everton are said to be fresh suitors for the 20-year-old Malian.
However, all three face competition from Juventus, who appear to have got the ball rolling already in pursuit of Doumbia.
The report claims Juve have started initial contacts with Doumbia’s camp and have drafted up an offer worth around €10million (£8.5million).
However, Antwerp are said to be unlikely to accept such a big and expect to receive around €15million (£13million) for Doumbia.
What Mahamadou Doumbia could bring to the Premier League
Doumbia has made a name for himself as one of the best players in the Belgian top flight and looks ready for a big move elsewhere.
His performances have earned him comparisons to former Ivory Coast international Yaya Toure, according to Africa Soccer.
The outlet has also shared quotes from former Mali international Adama Tamboura, who has claimed that Doumbia’s profile fits the Premier League.
“I think his profile is more suited to English football, which isn’t overly tactical, unlike Spain,” said Tamboura.
“Several Malian players have already made their mark in England, as we play almost the same football.
In the Premier League, he’ll certainly be able to adapt very quickly, but he’ll have to be ready physically and mentally.
“It’s a different challenge and a different level. He needs to keep working hard to make his mark.
Tamboura also called Doumbia a “very promising player”, but urged him to be patient rather than jump at the first big move offered to him.
“I think he’s a very promising player who’s having a great season with Antwerp, but he definitely shouldn’t rush into anything,” said Tamboura.
“He needs to prepare himself mentally before making any decision. It’s also clear that things move very quickly in the world of football these days.
“It’s up to him to decide whether he wants to stay or whether he has the ability to explore something else.”
