Liverpool’s pursuit of Cheick Doucoure may come to a halt due to Crystal Palace’s substantial asking price, as reported by the Evening Standard. The Mali international had emerged as a target for Jurgen Klopp, but it’s unlikely Liverpool will make a formal offer for the £70 million-rated midfielder before the transfer deadline.

Crystal Palace is determined to retain Cheick Doucoure, despite late-window interest in the midfielder. The London club considers him a crucial part of their squad and is unwilling to part ways with him at this stage.

Doucoure became a target for Liverpool after they missed out on Moises Caicedo and Romeo Lavia, both of whom ultimately signed with Chelsea. Palace slapped a £70 million price tag on the Malian international to deter potential suitors.

This tactic appears to have dissuaded Liverpool, as reports of an impending offer have not materialized. Jurgen Klopp had been keen to strengthen his midfield with a new holding midfielder, and the acquisition of Wataru Endo may signal the resolution of that position.

While Liverpool maintained contact with Doucoure regarding a potential move, it seems that any such move may be postponed to future transfer windows. Liverpool has also inquired about Ryan Gravenberch from Bayern Munich, but he isn’t a natural defensive midfielder.

Liverpool has lost experienced players who were integral to their recent successes, with Jordan Henderson and Fabinho departing for a new venture in Saudi Arabia. Klopp is aware that he has not adequately replaced these two key figures in his squad.

With the transfer window closing in two days, Palace will shift their focus to retaining other notable stars. The club is aware that clubs may still approach Eberechi Eze and Marc Guehi. However, credible reports suggest that these players, like Doucoure, are content at Palace and may choose to stay.

If Palace succeeds in retaining their top talents, this transfer window could be considered a significant success. With the earlier retention of Michael Olise amid Chelsea’s interest, the team has a promising outlook with Doucoure, Guehi, and Eze as part of their squad.