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Marco Silva is targeting a reunion with Watford midfielder Abdoulaye Doucoure.

Everton boss Silva worked with Doucoure during his brief spell in charge at the Hornets and hopes that connection might help tempt him to Merseyside.

Silva is a huge admirer of the midfield powerhouse, who has played a key role in Watford's impressive start to the season.

The Goodison top brass are ready to back their manager in the market to build a squad capable of pushing for a top four place in the future. But a deal could be difficult because of the resentment surrounding Silva’s bitter departure from Vicarage Road before eventually landing the Everton job last summer.

(Image: Reuters)

Richarlison did move from Watford to the Blues this summer for £40m — and they know that signing Doucoure would leave them facing another huge price.

Everton want to strengthen their midfield, and aim to make Andre Gomes' current loan from Barcelona permanent.

They also have an interest in Arsenal star Aaron Ramsey, who is out of contract next summer but are waiting to check on developments over the Wales international's before making a move.

Meanwhile, Watford have handed Javi Gracia up to SEVEN more years in charge.

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Head coach Gracia has signed a new four-and-a-half year deal, keeping him at Vicarage Road until the summer of 2023 — and there is a two-way option for a further three years.

It’s a remarkable statement of faith by owner Gino Pozzo, who had presided over a turnover of managers before Gracia replaced Silva in January. If the 48-year-old remains in office only until that break clause, he will have lasted more than his nine predecessors put together.

Gracia said: “I have found people with good values, ambition and desire to grow. In this moment, the team is doing a lot of things well, but they know that by being demanding we can improve.”