New Everton boss Sam Allardyce signed Kone – who has been linked with the Toffees, West Ham United and West Bromwich Albion since then – for Sunderland in January 2016.
One bookmaker has made Everton favourites to sign Sunderland’s Lamine Kone in January, ahead of West Ham United and West Bromwich Albion.
Everton appointed Kone’s former manager Sam Allardyce on Wednesday, and lead the early betting at 3/1 after Sky Bet opened a market on the Ivorian’s next club.
The Toffees, along with West Brom, have long been linked with a move for Kone, whom Allardyce brought to England while in charge of Sunderland 22 months ago, although the trail seems to have gone cold in recent months.
Kone’s form – his Sunderland side are currently battling relegation to the third tier – may be a factor in that, although it does not appear to have deterred West Ham, who were recently credited with interest in the 28-year-old after hiring another of his old bosses, David Moyes.
According to Sky Bet, West Ham, at 5/1, and West Brom, at 6/1, are also in with a shout of signing Kone this winter.
Swansea City (8/1) and Crystal Palace (10/1) are also listed as contenders, while the French-born player is 6/4 to remain at the Stadium of Light.
Could Kone leave Sunderland in January? And will Everton, West Ham, West Brom or someone else win the race for his signature?
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