Leeds United have seemingly missed out on a ‘huge talent’ with Borussia Monchengladbach confirming the signing of Kouadio ‘Manu’ Kone from Toulouse, as reported by the Bundesliga outfit’s official website.
Two years ago, Gladbach snapped up another talented youngster from French football.
And if Kone can emulate the impact of the supremely-gifted Marcus Thuram – now a fully-fledged France international and a Champions League star – the box-to-box midfielder will be worth every penny of his £8 million price-tag.
Gladbach have snapped up Kone on a contract until 2025, although the France U19 international will spend the rest of the season on loan at Toulouse before moving across the border in the summer.
“Kouadio Koné is a really interesting player, who we have been following for some time now for the France youth national teams and his club Toulouse,” said the highly regarded sporting director Max Eberl, who is admired across Germany for his ability to unearth promising youngsters.
“He is a huge talent who has been monitored by top clubs from across Europe. We’re delighted that he has chosen to join Borussia Monchengladbach and the Bundesliga.”
Leeds had tried in vain to lure Kone to Elland Road, although they will now be forced to look elsewhere in pursuit of a midfielder capable of fitting into Marcelo Bielsa’s relentless approach to the Beautiful Game.
According to Corriere dello Sport, Bielsa instructed Leeds to snap up Kone after embarking on a scouting mission in November.
But, once the likes of Gladbach, Dortmund and AC Milan entered the race, the Yorkshire giants knew their luck was out.
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