“Doucoure Replacement is Already Here?” – Everton Open Talks with Top Midfielder with EPL Experience as Moyes Eyes Doucoure Successor

Everton Open Talks with Fred as Moyes Eyes Doucouré Successor

Everton have opened talks with Fred’s representatives as they look to bolster their midfield options ahead of a historic season at their new Hill Dickinson Stadium, with David Moyes keen to find a successor to Abdoulaye Doucouré.

According to Turkish outlet Sabah, the Toffees have initiated contact with the agent of Fred, who currently plies his trade at Fenerbahçe under José Mourinho. The former Manchester United midfielder remains highly regarded by the Portuguese coach, but Everton are monitoring the situation closely as they weigh up a potential deal.

The 31-year-old Brazilian is reportedly valued at £13m – a figure that may yet prove a stumbling block, particularly given that Fenerbahçe signed him from United for just £7.7m. Despite the price tag, Fred’s experience in the Premier League and his recent resurgence in Turkey have kept him on Everton’s radar.

Fred would arrive at Goodison Park – or more accurately, the club’s newly-built waterfront home – as a direct replacement for Doucouré, who has departed the club following the expiration of his contract. Moyes now faces the challenge of filling the void left by one of Everton’s most important players in recent years.

Doucouré’s departure marks the end of a significant chapter. The Mali international featured 166 times for the club and scored 21 goals – the most memorable of which came in the 2022/23 season finale against Bournemouth, keeping Everton in the top flight. However, his £130,000-per-week wage proved difficult to sustain, prompting the Toffees to pursue more cost-effective options.

Fred, who earns a reported £113,000 per week in Turkey, represents a potentially shrewd acquisition. While his time at Manchester United was turbulent, his numbers tell a compelling story. In the 2024/25 campaign under Mourinho, Fred registered five goals and six assists from midfield, showing he still has the quality to impact games at the top level.

Across his club career, Fred has produced 14 goals and 19 assists in his time at United, with his versatility a particular asset. Predominantly operating as a central midfielder (296 appearances, 29 goals, 34 assists), he has also featured as a defensive and attacking midfielder when required.

Former United boss Erik ten Hag once described Fred as “magnificent” – a pointed reminder that, while criticised in certain circles, he remains a player of considerable ability. With 32 caps for Brazil to his name and a burning desire to prove his critics wrong, a return to English football could offer Fred the perfect opportunity to reignite his Premier League career.

For Moyes and Everton, the move would also provide a reliable and experienced engine room presence at a time when leadership and quality will be essential. As they prepare to christen their new stadium with Brighton the visitors in August, a player of Fred’s calibre could offer exactly the midfield dynamism needed to launch the new era on solid footing.