Sunderland fan launches petition to stop Lamine Kone transfer

A petition has been launched to halt the possible transfer of Lamine Kone from Sunderland to Everton as Ronald Koeman looks to strengthen his squad.

Sunderland's Lamine Kone in action with Crystal Palace's Jordon Mutch

A petition has been launched on change.org to try to stop Sunderland from attempting to sell defender Lamine Kone.

The petition comes in the wake of the news reported by The BBC they are in negotiations with Everton for the defender.

Fans' concerns over the possible transfer were further added to when it emerged that Kone was reported to have travelled to Liverpool to discuss terms with Ronald Koeman's side. Kone has since returned to Sunderland after talks, with a deal possibly imminent.

Sunderland's Lamine Kone celebrates with team mates after scoring their first goal

At the time of writing the petition has over 3,300 signatures and was set up by user D Moir. The petition is to raise concerns over the clubs willingness to sell one of its best players and is seen as a direct stance against club Chairman Ellis Short.

The petition states: "This petition has been set up to highlight the Fans' concerns in relation to the club agreeing a fee with Everton over one of our best players, Lamine Kone. If the reports are simply just rumours then the club should come out and openly confirm this to the fans."

But it was not only in signing the petition where supporters showed their dismay. Since Tuesday evening fans have been reacting to the news on Twitter via #KeepKone. 

Here is a look at the discontent shown at the news of his possible departure...

News around Everton’s interest in Kone comes despite the fact that Koeman’s side have completed the signing of Ashley Williams from Swansea FC, but it would appear that the club are looking to strengthen further.

Everton manager Ronald Koeman

Everton are in the market for centre-backs after the sale of John Stones to Manchester City and reported links that Phil Jagielka will make a move away from Goodison Park. 

It is Sunderland manager David Moyes’ interest in Jagielka reported by The Mail, a player he managed at Everton that could be used as a makeweight in any deal between the two clubs.

Sunderland manager David Moyes poses

But with Black Cats fans desperate to see Kone stay, the petition has now taken centre-stage in their efforts for the defender to remain on Wearside.

Kone who was signed by Sunderland in January for £5.5 million, in what is now viewed as a bargain, was an integral part of their fight from relegation and is also the subject of further transfer speculation with The Star reporting Chelsea keen on acquiring the services of the defender.