The centre-back was heavily linked with leaving for the Black Cats’ Premier League rivals.
Sunderland manager David Moyes
David Moyes has admitted to the Shields Gazette that he would be delighted if Lamine Kone decided to put a difficult window behind him by signing a new deal with Sunderland.
The defender was the subject of intense speculation during the summer, with the Shields Gazette reporting that Everton made an £18m bid for the 27-year-old.
Sunderland’s Lamine Kone
However, after a bizarre turn of events that saw a transfer request put in which Moyes would later claim the centre-back knew nothing about (via Chronicle), Kone ended up staying at the Stadium of Light as the Toffees did not make a follow up bid, the Shields Gazette reports.
And while Moyes has conceded that it was a tough time for everyone while the rumours were continuing, he hinted that the Ivory Coast international could now be interested in signing a contract extension.
Kone scoring against Everton last season
“It has been a difficult period for us all,” he told the Shields Gazette. “I understand Lamine’s position but I also understand the position of the club, we are looking to get things resolved.
“I will be delighted if Lamine signs a new contract.
“Hopefully, there might be some news, we always said if there was a promise made we would stick by our word and we would do that.”
If the Black Cats could agree a new deal with Kone, it would provide a major boost to their hopes of achieving their aims for this season.
The former Lorient man’s arrival was arguably a key moment in the club’s season last term as he proved to be hugely influential in keeping the side in the Premier League.
And if he is able to put the events of the last few months behind him, there is surely no reason why he cannot rediscover that form once again.
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