- Crystal Palace eye Issa Doumbia
- Chelsea also in race for Serie B star
- Eagles set for midfield overhaul
Crystal Palace are amongst a list of clubs keen to acquire the services of Italian Under-21 international Issa Doumbia, who has impressed this season at Venezia, and is emerging as one of the standout young targets for a host of European clubs.
Palace are one of several clubs who have been keeping tabs on Doumbia, according to TEAMtalk. The 22-year-old has been a key figure for Venezia in Serie B this campaign, and has amassed an impressive eight goals and four assists in all competitions this season.
A combative, all-action and dominating midfielder, Doumbia’s profile fits the mould that Premier League clubs search for. Newcastle, Everton, Nottingham Forest, Brighton and Chelsea have all reportedly had scouts watching Doumbia, as well as Palace.
Palace in need of midfield overhaul
Crystal Palace are approaching a Summer where a revamp in midfield is necessary. Daichi Kamada is looking increasingly likely to depart the club upon the expiration of his contract. Jefferson Lerma is beyond his best, and there is likely going to be huge interest in the services of Adam Wharton.
Doumbia fits Palace’s recent transfer strategy, and would be a shrewd acquisition, likely costing little over £15 million. With his ability, Doumbia would be able to step in and make an immediate impact, which is what Palace will be hoping for.
His goal threat and creativity would also add something which Palace have lacked desperately this season. Not one of Oliver Glasner’s four midfield options have recorded a single goal this season, in any competition.
In fact, Palace have often struggled for goals from that area of the pitch. Signing a player who can not only contribute defensively, but also in the final third, is something incredibly important for Palace going forward.
Generally deployed as a box-to-box midfielder, Doumbia has played a key role in Venezia’s strong season, as they currently occupy top spot in Serie B with a three point advantage and just three games to go.
Heavy competition will make Doumbia a big catch
Not only is there competition from England, but also from the continent. BlueCo are reportedly keen to add Doumbia to their ever-growing network of talent, which would supposedly lead to a Chelsea move if all works out.
Similarly, Roma are also interested, and they have a multi-club ownership with Everton.
A whole hoard of European clubs also have reported interest, and therefore this is a transfer saga which could well cause some drama over the Summer.
Venezia are in a strong position when it comes to negotiations. Promotion to Serie A would only improve that stance, along with the three years remaining on his contract.
Doumbia fits the mould at Palace and would certainly make an impact, so this is definitely one to watch over the course of the Summer transfer window.
