Reports: Manchester United interested in making surprise move for Premier League midfielder

What's the rumour?

Manchester United are reportedly looking to sign two central midfielders in the summer transfer window and now latest reports in The Mirror claim that the Red Devils are keeping tabs on Watford midfielder Abdoulaye Doucoure.

According to the same report, Manchester United sent scouts to watch the midfielder play in Watford's 1-0 victory over West Brom. United, however, might face competition to sign the Frenchman as Liverpool, Tottenham and Arsenal are also said to be interested in signing the 25-year-old.

In case you didn't know...

Doucoure has been in fine form for Watford this season

One of Watford's standout players this season, Doucoure has been in very good form for the Hornets this season. The Frenchman has already scored 7 goals and further assisted 2 more in 28 appearances so far.

Pretty good on the ball technically, Doucoure's biggest asset perhaps is athleticism and dynamic style of play. The 25-year-old star still has two years left on his deal, however, he did hint at a move in the summer. When asked about his future recently, he said:

“We’ll see what the state of play is in the summer and then we can ask questions.”

The heart of the matter

With Carrick retiring at the end of the season and Marouane Fellaini set to leave for free in the summer transfer window, Mourinho is reportedly on the lookout for midfielders and Doucoure's physicality, stamina and athleticism might just be what the Red Devils need in the centre of the park.

Lazio's Milinkovic-Savic has also been linked heavily and it will be interesting to see how Manchester United strengthen in the coming transfer window.

Rumour rating/probability

7/10

Doucoure has undoubtedly been Watford's best player this season. Capable of playing as a defensive midfielder or as a 'number 8', the Frenchman could just get the best out of Paul Pogba in a midfield 3.

Also, with his price not expected to rise very high, the Red Devils could well end up sealing this slightly surprising deal in the summer transfer window.

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He might not be the most eye-catching player, but he is certainly effective.

Author's take

At 25, Doucoure is at the peak of his career and has been playing some very good football this season. If the Frenchman is available for a relatively cheap price, then United should not hesitate to sign him as he will definitely add physicality and another dimension to Manchester United's midfield.