Abdoulaye Doucoure Everton contract talks could hit skids due to wages
Abdoulaye Doucoure’s wages could still “prohibit” Everton from entering talks over a new deal, according to the Liverpool Echo.
INews claim (21 March) the board are ready to trigger the Mali international’s year extension, as long as his Goodison Park resurgence continues.
However, The Echo have since suggested (21 March) talks over a new deal may not commence until the club knows exactly which division it will be occupying come the start of the 2022/23 season.
“The club holds the option to extend the deal by a year – though Doucoure’s wages may prohibit talks, at least until it is clear which division Everton will be competing in next year,” they wrote.
Hold fire
The length of the contract on the table for Doucoure is essential. He’s been impressive under Sean Dyche, but the club must ensure they don’t splash out on another big contract. He’s enjoyed a good run of form, but that doesn’t constitute a big offer.
Furthermore, the board shouldn’t be looking to engage in concrete contract talks until their league status has been decided. The gulf in finances between the Championship and Premier League is massive and the hierarchy will be working based on two eventualities.
Dyche has been mightily impressive since his arrival on Merseyside and the former Burnley boss will be desperate to ensure the Toffees’ Premier League survival as early as possible and get planning for the 2023/24 season. The close-knit nature of the relegation battle means a run of wins could drag Everton well clear of trouble relatively quickly.
Doucoure could play a big part over the next couple of months and if he does help secure safety, he’s probably deserving of a new deal.