Report: Everton join Leicester and Arsenal in race to sign Ismael Doukoure

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French website La Voix Du Nord have claimed that Everton are in the midst of a long list of clubs looking to sign Valenciennes defender Ismael Doukoure this summer – with Arsenal and Leicester City both previously linked to sign the French teen.

Doukoure, 17, has broken into the second-tier French side this season – clocking up 17 appearances in all competitions at centre-back. The defender, who has a contract until the summer of 2023, has caught the attention of multiple European sides.

Big European clubs include the likes of AC Milan, Barcelona and Roma among others – while the likes of Arsenal and Leicester have been previously linked – as per Foot Mercato. The report claims Valenciennes want between £5million and £7million.

TBR’s view – Which Premier League club suits Doukoure most?

What is crucial for Doukoure, is that he continues to gain regular first-team football – having already played 17 times at senior level. He either needs to be given the odd game for any of the interested parties, or immediately go on loan.

Arsenal and Leicester have shown a faith in youngsters this season, perhaps helped by their competition in the Europa League. Everton have not done so as much, but could do with additions at centre-back. But Arsenal or Leicester is the better move.

Realistically, though, any club should look to sign Doukoure and then immediately loan him back to Valenciennes to further his development with his boyhood side. That way, he will continue to gain regular first-team football.