Liverpool Step Up Pursuit of Crystal Palace Star Cheick Doucoure

Liverpool are increasing their efforts to sign Crystal Palace midfielder Cheick Doucoure, according to recent reports.

The Reds have missed out on signing midfield targets Moises Caicedo and Romeo Lavia, who both opted to join Premier League rivals Chelsea over the past week. This has left Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp short on options in the defensive midfield position.

However, according to The Independent, Liverpool have now turned their attention to Doucoure as they look to solve their midfield dilemma. The report claims Liverpool could have to pay up to £60 million to sign the Mali international, with Palace expected to demand a high fee amid impending departures from Selhurst Park.

Doucoure has become a key player for Palace since joining from Lens last summer in an £18 million deal. He helped the Eagles to a solid mid-table finish last season. With some added signings this summer, Palace will be aiming for a top 10 finish next campaign.

But Liverpool’s need for reinforcements in midfield means they are willing to pay big money to lure Doucoure to Anfield. The Reds have already missed out on top targets Caicedo and Lavia to Chelsea in recent days.

Klopp will be hoping his side can beat their London rivals to land the signature of the highly-rated Doucoure as he looks to strengthen his options in the centre of the park.