Everton Eyes Young Midfielder Abdoulaye Doumbia as January Transfer Target
Everton currently occupies the 14th spot in the Premier League after completing eight matches, amassing 10 points through two wins, four draws, and two losses. Manager David Moyes has been active in reshaping the midfield since the summer, bringing in players like Hayden Hackney, Christian Nørgaard, and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, while also securing a permanent deal for Merlin Röhl. James Garner has featured in every league match, and Harrison Armstrong has also played in all eight games, providing Moyes with reliable options despite the team’s inconsistent performance.
Hackney, who is under contract until 2031, presents long-term potential, and Garner’s contract extends to 2030. While Nørgaard offers experience, he has only appeared in the league once this season. Everton has created a stable core, yet another young defensive midfielder could further enhance their squad depth and present a longer-term asset as a backup to the current starters.
Moyes seeks midfielders who can safeguard the defense, cover substantial ground, and facilitate quick transitions post-possession. Garner and Hackney bring both energy and technical skills, while Armstrong’s rise provides the manager with an additional young option. However, adding a specialist defensive midfielder could allow these players increased freedom to press higher up the pitch, minimizing the risk of exposing the back four during transitions.
Reports suggest that Everton has turned its attention to Sweden in search of this midfield specialist. According to Sport Witness, citing Africa Foot, Everton is among several British clubs monitoring BK Häcken midfielder Abdoulaye Doumbia, alongside Celtic, Sunderland and Coventry City. Other clubs, including Bayer Leverkusen, Nice, Lens, Freiburg, and Club Brugge, are also keeping an eye on the 19-year-old, while Wolves, Strasbourg, and Rennes expressed interest earlier this year.
Doumbia has made notable strides since joining Häcken from ASEC Mimosas in January, participating in 28 matches over 2,389 minutes, where he scored two goals and provided three assists. His estimated market value has surged from approximately £600,000 in June to roughly £4.3 million, showcasing his development in Sweden. With a potential move in January, the competition could intensify significantly.
Should Everton risk £4.3m on Doumbia?
HULL, ENGLAND – OCTOBER 11: David Moyes, Manager of Everton, looks on prior to the Premier League 2026/27 match between Hull City and Everton at MKM Stadium on October 11, 2026 in Hull, England. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)
Everton may want to consider a move but should do so with a well-defined development strategy. Doumbia’s defensive capabilities and energy could synergize well with Garner and Hackney, and his young age allows for the opportunity to develop his skills before expecting him to assume a regular starting role. While his aspirations of playing for clubs like Real Madrid, Barcelona, or Liverpool shouldn’t discourage Everton, a thriving stint at Hill Dickinson Stadium could pave the path to reaching such heights.
However, the club needs to recognize that a rising market value does not equate to immediate readiness. Transitioning from the Allsvenskan to the Premier League demands assessment of Doumbia’s ability to cope with the league’s pace and physicality. At a potential cost of £4.3 million, the investment appears reasonable, provided Everton views him as a growing asset rather than an instant fix.
