Mali midfielder Doucouré keen to extend Everton stay amid contract uncertainty

Abdoulaye Doucouré has expressed his desire to remain at Everton for at least one more season, as discussions around his contract extension continue ahead of the club’s historic move to a new stadium.

The 32-year-old Mali international has played a pivotal role for the Toffees since arriving from Watford in 2020.

Despite being a consistent presence in midfield, with 164 appearances to his name, Doucouré’s future at Goodison Park remains unresolved as the club has yet to activate the one-year extension clause in his current deal.

Speaking to Toffee TV, Doucouré made clear his hope that Everton will reward his performances with a new contract. “It’s still up in the air,” he admitted.

“The club are going to offer me a new contract soon, and obviously, I am happy about that. I think I deserve a new contract.”

Doucouré’s impact on the team has been widely recognised, with his energy, tactical discipline, and goal-scoring ability proving vital, particularly in critical moments over the past two seasons.

Nevertheless, the midfielder acknowledged the uncertainty that has surrounded his situation in recent months.

“I will always be grateful for Everton, but I wanted to know what was going on—if I was going to stay, if I was going to leave, are they going to offer me something? At some point, you want to know as a player,” he explained. “I think, given what I’ve done for the club, I deserve to know.”

He also revealed that recent talks with club officials have been encouraging. “I had a nice conversation last week with the club, and hopefully, they are going to offer me a new contract,” he said.

“At the moment, I am still an Everton player, but it’s going to be a long summer, so let’s see what happens.”

With Everton preparing to leave Goodison Park after 132 years and move to the state-of-the-art 52,000-seater Bramley-Moore Dock Stadium, the timing of Doucouré’s comments highlights both a personal desire to be part of the club’s next chapter and a professional appeal for recognition of his contributions.

Doucouré’s leadership and experience would be valuable assets as the club transitions to its new home. The midfielder has remained a steady figure during what has been a turbulent period for Everton, both on and off the pitch, including managerial changes and battles for Premier League survival.

Everton’s final match at Goodison Park will take place on Sunday, 18 May, when they host Southampton. The team will then conclude the 2024–25 campaign with an away fixture against Newcastle United on 25 May. The closing matches could also mark Doucouré’s final appearances for the club—unless an agreement is reached.

While no formal offer has yet been made public, Doucouré’s openness about his willingness to stay and help guide the club through a transformative period may resonate with supporters and decision-makers alike.

With the summer transfer window looming and preparations for the stadium move intensifying, Everton now face a decision that will shape not only Doucouré’s future but also the stability of their midfield heading into a new era.