French club Racing Club de Strasbourg have made an offer worth €10m for Watford striker Mamadou Doumbia as they look to secure the services of one of Mali’s most promising young forwards.
The 20-year-old, who has earned the nickname “Messi” because of his talent and potential, has attracted attention after an impressive rise in English and international football.
According to information from Africafoot, negotiations between Strasbourg and Watford are progressing positively as the French side attempt to reach an agreement for the 1.92m striker.
Doumbia’s profile has caught the attention of Strasbourg’s recruitment team, with the club looking to strengthen its attacking options. Strasbourg are linked to the BlueCo ownership group, which also has ties to Chelsea.
However, the French club faces competition for the Malian forward, with English sides Newcastle United, Burnley and Brentford also reportedly following his progress.
Doumbia joined Watford in 2024 after making a name for himself on the international stage with Mali’s Under-17 team at the 2023 FIFA U-17 World Cup in Indonesia.
The striker played a key role in Mali’s impressive tournament campaign, scoring four goals in four matches as the West Africans finished third behind eventual champions Germany and runners-up France.
His performances at youth level helped him secure a move to English football, where he has continued his development with Watford.
During his first season with the Championship club, Doumbia made 33 appearances and scored five goals. Although he remains under contract with Watford until 2029, the young forward is reportedly open to a new challenge that would provide more opportunities to play regularly.
Strasbourg believe his combination of technical ability, physical strength and finishing instinct could make him a valuable addition to their squad.
The Malian striker began his development at Black Star Academy in Bamako, one of the country’s recognised football development centres, before earning his move to Europe.
His rapid progress has made him one of Mali’s most exciting attacking prospects, and clubs across Europe continue to monitor his situation.
For Doumbia, the next stage of his career could prove important as he looks to establish himself at senior level and continue his progression after his breakthrough performances with both Watford and Mali.
Strasbourg are preparing for the new French league season, with their opening fixture set to come against Olympique de Marseille, and the club is hoping to strengthen its squad before the campaign begins.
Whether Doumbia will be part of their plans remains to be seen, but the €10m offer highlights the growing interest surrounding the young Malian forward.
