Reds 'are considering move for Crystal Palace star Doucoure' as midfield option

Liverpool are considering a move to sign Crystal Palace midfielder Cheick Doucoure this summer, according to reports.

The Reds have been undergoing a midfield rebuild this summer and have already welcomed the arrivals of Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai.

With the likes of Naby Keita, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, James Milner and potentially Jordan Henderson all departing the Merseyside club this summer, there's a serious need to reinforce their midfield.

And, according to the Athletic, Liverpool have taken the first steps in doing so as they consider a move for Palace star Doucoure.

The outlet claim that the Eagles will hold out for a 'significant sum' for the Malian international - who only joined the club last summer.

Doucoure enjoyed a stellar debut campaign in the Premier League and won the Crystal Palace F.C. Player of the Year award just a few months ago.

The Malian midfielder completed a £22million move from Lens last summer and made 35 appearances in all competitions as Palace survived a relegation battle.

Palace have already welcomed one central midfielder in the form of Jefferson Lerma - who arrived for free from Bournemouth - but would likely strengthen again if Doucoure is sold.

Liverpool, meanwhile, have been on the search for another central midfielder and were closely linked with Southampton's Romeo Lavia.

However, the Saints are reportedly holding out for a £50million fee for the relegated star - which has led the Reds to take their search elsewhere.

Liverpool are also locked in talks with Saudi side Al Ittihad after they made a £40m bid for midfielder Fabinho - who was left off the club's pre-season tour on Saturday.

This comes after it was revealed that the two sides were 'discussing key details' ahead of the Brazilian's potential move this summer.

An official bid of £40million was submitted for the 29-year-old as it appeared that he would be heading to Saudi Arabia this summer.

However, Liverpool and Al Ittihad are now locked in talks over the fee.

It remains to be seen as to whether a deal can be agree this summer, but with Jurgen Klopp leaving Fabinho out of his 32-man pre-season squad, it is clear his future is in doubt.