Everton midfielder Abdoulaye Doucoure 'in negotiations' to switch allegiance from France

Mali are reportedly hopeful Everton star Abdoulaye Doucoure will agree to switch his international allegiance from France in time to feature in their World Cup play-offs next month.

According to a report from Foot Mercato , the Blues midfielder is one of a number of players eligible to represent Mali that they are hopeful of convincing.

The report quotes Mali FA President Baviuex Toure, who said: "We are in negotiations for the arrival of Abdoulaye Doucoure, Moussa Dembele and Cheick Doucoure.

"By the end of the week, we will have a result."

Foot Mercato also state that Doucoure has turned down the opportunity to represent the African country numerous times in the past.

However, they seem to suggest that the 29-year-old has had a change of heart, and is in discussions to switch his allegiance from the country of his birth.

Doucoure is yet to play for France’s senior team but did represent Les Bleus’ youth sides up until the age of 21.

The Toffees midfielder, who is currently sidelined with an injury, has previously spoken of feeling undervalued in France, stating that he’d often outshone stalwarts of the national team without being rewarded with a call up.

"In France, I am a bit underrated, yes, certainly," he told French publication Onze Mondial in December 2020.

"I had very good statistics, better ones than even certain French internationals."

If Doucoure does opt play for Mali, he could make his debut in their World Cup qualifier against Tunisia in March, fitness providing.