Everton have decided not to activate the one-year extension clause in Abdoulaye Doucouré’s contract, as reported by The Athletic.
Doucouré’s current deal is set to expire at the end of the season, leaving the Toffees with a significant decision to make regarding his future at the club.
Everton are preparing to usher in a new era as they move into their new stadium ahead of the 2025-26 campaign, with a squad overhaul anticipated due to several players nearing the end of their contracts.
Doucouré, one of the club’s highest earners, currently makes around £130,000 per week at Goodison Park. Despite being 32 years old, he remains capable of influencing games.
Everton could explore the possibility of negotiating a new contract on reduced wages, though such scenarios are rare in sports, where players who continue to perform often demand higher salaries.
Known for his unpredictable yet impactful performances, Doucouré has been a crucial figure for Everton at key moments over the past few years, scoring vital goals to secure Premier League survival.
His decisive strike in a 1-0 victory over Bournemouth on the final day of the 2022-23 season ensured the Blues avoided relegation.
As Everton weigh their options, Doucouré’s future remains uncertain, with the club balancing financial considerations against his on-field contributions.