Aasif Rahman

Fri 7 March 2025 20:00, UK

Everton fans reacted on social media after they were given an update on Abdoulaye Doucoure’s future at the club.

Doucoure’s contract is set to expire this summer, and with new signings arriving and questions over his recent performances, speculation has grown over whether he will remain at Goodison Park.

Doucoure came under fire from Everton supporters earlier in the season, particularly in the Merseyside derby when his misplaced pass led to Liverpool’s equaliser.

However, the Mali international has rediscovered his form in recent weeks, scoring twice and providing an assist in his last three Premier League games—having previously gone the entire season without a single goal contribution before February.

Now, fans have been met with fresh developments regarding the 32-year-old’s future, with a journalist providing the latest update.

Everton to let Abdoulaye Doucoure leave despite contract option

According to Paddy Boyland of The Athletic, Everton have opted against triggering the one-year extension in Doucoure’s contract, meaning he will be free to leave at the end of the season unless fresh terms are agreed.

This decision leaves the club needing to negotiate an entirely new deal if they wish to keep him beyond this campaign.

Despite Everton’s early season struggles, Doucoure has been impressive of late, making 26 starts across all competitions under both Sean Dyche and David Moyes.

Signed for £20 million under Frank Lampard in 2020, the 32-year-old has played a key role in the midfield in recent years, but his future now remains uncertain.

David Moyes faces key squad rebuild as Everton look to the future

Doucoure is one of 15 Everton players whose contracts expire this summer, with Idrissa Gueye and Dominic Calvert-Lewin also facing uncertain futures.

Newcastle have been linked with a move for Calvert-Lewin, potentially as a replacement for Callum Wilson, should the striker depart on a free transfer

Moyes has overseen a remarkable turnaround at Everton and as already begun reshaping the squad since taking charge earlier this season. Allowing key figures from the previous regime to leave could signal a shift towards a younger, fresher side.

One potential piece of that puzzle is Carlos Alcaraz, who arrived on loan in January and has already impressed, scoring and assisting in the win over Crystal Palace.

Some fans believe Doucoure’s departure could free up funds to sign Alcaraz permanently, with one supporter calling it the “right decision” and another suggesting it would be a “smart move” for Everton’s long-term rebuild.