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What’s the rumour?
As per reports from the Mirror, Manchester United have entered the race to sign Watford's Abdoulaye Doucoure. Arsenal, Liverpool and Spurs have also expressed interest in the midfielder and it may be a transfer battle this summer for the Frenchman's signature according to the same report.
The Background
Doucoure was signed from Rennes by Watford in February 2016. He was immediately sent out on a short-term loan to Granada and managed to play 15 games for the club. He has been a vital component of the Watford setup this season and has caught the eye of many scouts across the country.
Primarily a central midfielder, Doucoure has shown both defensive and offensive attributes to his game. He is incredibly athletic, tenacious and technically sound. The midfielder has missed just one league game all season and has a respectable 7 goals and 3 assists this campaign.
The heart of the matter
Arsenal, Liverpool and Spurs have been linked with the Watford man and reportedly, Manchester United are also in the picture. Mourinho will be looking to add steel to his midfield, with Michael Carrick retiring and Marouane Fellaini likely to leave the club.
Next season, the central midfielders he would have at his disposal would be Paul Pogba, Nemanja Matic, Ander Herrera and Scott McTominay. If Mourinho decides to make the switch to a 4-3-3 system, he would want to buy one or two signings to provide depth. Doucoure has the necessary attributes to slot alongside Matic and Pogba.
The 25-year-old has a contract till 2020 and is valued at approximately €12 million.
Rumour rating- 7/10
Many tabloids across England are reporting the same and there are even reports of Mourinho sending scouts to watch the midfielder in action.
Video: Doucoure for Watford in 2017-18
Author's take
There is no doubt that Mourinho will bring in a couple of midfielders this summer. Although United have been linked with big money moves for players of bigger reputation, Doucoure can prove to be a great buy at an affordable price. Watford will find it hard to keep hold of their leading scorer if any of the top six clubs make a substantial offer.
