Ian Darke Tips Everton to Extend Star’s Contract — Unless ‘Unrealistic’ Demands Arise

At 32 years old, Abdoulaye Doucoure remains a vital figure for Everton, even as his contract nears its end this summer.

The Malian midfielder proved his worth once again by scoring a dramatic last-minute winner in Everton’s away clash with Nottingham Forest on Saturday, 12 April.

Doucoure is among a group of Everton players whose contracts expire at the end of the season, leaving major decisions ahead for The Friedkin Group, manager David Moyes, and the players themselves.

His decisive goal at the City Ground sparked wild celebrations among the travelling supporters, and it’s just the latest in a string of important contributions.

Perhaps none will surpass his goal on the final day of the 2022–23 campaign, which secured Everton’s Premier League survival against Bournemouth at Goodison Park.

Currently, players like Idrissa Gueye, Seamus Coleman, and Dominic Calvert-Lewin also face uncertain futures, with their contracts also set to expire.

As things stand, all could leave on free transfers.

After netting the winner against Forest, Doucoure celebrated with a gesture that resembled signing a contract—fueling speculation that he’s eager to extend his stay at the club.

He later confirmed his desire to remain with Everton.

Commentator Ian Darke weighed in on the celebration and Doucoure’s contract situation during a discussion with Goodison News.

“Maybe that celebration was a signal,” Darke chuckled.

“Without watching him play every week, it’s tough to judge, but he’s clearly a key part of Moyes’ squad.”

Darke continued: “Unless they’re planning to splash big money in the market, I’d imagine they’d want to keep him.

He’s a regular starter, versatile, and dependable.

Unless his wage demands are unreasonable, a new deal seems sensible.”

Meanwhile, Moyes remains focused on finishing the campaign strongly before any contract talks take place.

Although Everton have already secured their Premier League status, the manager is prioritizing results before making long-term decisions.

The Toffees have six league games left, with three still to be played at Goodison Park—starting with Manchester City on Saturday, 19 April, followed by matches against Ipswich Town and Southampton.

After the season wraps up, Everton are expected to begin discussions with the eight first-team players whose contracts are up.

The next few weeks will be crucial in determining the makeup of the squad heading into the move to Bramley-Moore Dock.