West Bromwich Albion are reportedly keen on Sunderland defender Lamine Kone.
Everton’s Romelu Lukaku in action with Sunderland’s Lamine Kone
According to Sky Sports, Sunderland defender Lamine Kone is wanted by West Bromwich Albion as they pursue a deal for the centre back.
Kone, 28, joined Sunderland from French side Lorient in the 2016 January transfer window after a protracted transfer saga.
Sunderland’s Lamine Kone warms up
The defender played a huge role in Sunderland avoiding relegation to the Championship, and his performances saw him attract major interest last summer.
As noted by Sky Sports, Everton failed with an £18million bid to sign the Ivory Coast international last summer – and Sunderland’s relegation from the Premier League means Kone is a wanted man again.
Liverpool’s Roberto Firmino in action with Sunderland’s Lamine Kone
It’s claimed that West Bromwich Albion are interested in signing Kone this summer, given that he allegedly wants to leave Sunderland following their relegation.
The Baggies do have the likes of Jonny Evans, Gareth McAuley and Craig Dawson who can play at centre back, but with Dawson regularly featuring at right back, manager Tony Pulis may instead look to bring in another central defender.
Arsenal’s Mesut Ozil in action with Sunderland’s Lamine Kone
Kone would bring athleticism to the West Brom defence that veteran McAuley just can’t provide, and West Brom will now look to profit from Sunderland’s drop into the Championship.
The report adds that Sunderland can’t expect anywhere close to the £18million they rejected almost a year ago, with West Brom potentially seeking a bargain.
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