In Focus: In-demand midfielder Doucoure staying at Watford

Watford boss Marco Silva has insisted that in-demand midfielder Abdoulaye Doucoure will not be leaving the Hornets in the January transfer window.

What’s the story?

Doucoure joined Watford from Rennes in the summer of 2016, and the midfielder scored once in 20 Premier League appearances during the 2016-17 campaign.

The 24-year-old has taken his form to a new level this season, however, with his all-action performances in the middle of the park leading to suggestions that a number of clubs were considering a move when the January transfer window opens for business.

Watford boss Silva, however, revealed on Friday that ‘nobody will leave the club in the January market’ amid suggestions that his squad could be raided by other clubs.

It has also been claimed that the Hornets are preparing to offer Doucoure a new £70,000-a-week contract in a bid to protect the valuation of a player that could eventually end up at a top-six team.

Which clubs would Doucoure suit?

West Ham United are in the market for a new central midfielder, and there is no question that Doucoure would be an upgrade on Pedro Obiang, who continues to divide opinion.

Everton are also expected to splash the cash this month, and it would not be a surprise if the Merseyside outfit approached Watford over a move for Doucoure.

At the age of 24, there is every reason to believe that the former France Under-21 international, who is valued at £5.4m by transfermarkt.co.uk, will continue to improve.

It is not out of the question that a Liverpool or an Arsenal would move for a player that would not command a ridiculous transfer fee, whilst Manchester United also need a new central midfielder as they look to ultimately replace Michael Carrick.

Watford boss Silva has insisted that Doucoure will not be leaving Vicarage Road in the January transfer window, but it does appear that the impressive midfielder will depart the Hornets sooner rather than later.