Sunderland's Lamine Kone requests transfer
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Lamine Kone released a statement Thursday confirming his request to leave Sunderland following unfulfilled promises of an improved contract.
The uncompromising defender joined from Lorient for around £6 million in January, but was apparently due improved terms on his deal that expires in 2020 if the Black Cats avoided relegation. Since these haven't transpired, Kone is trying to engineer a quick exit.
One team that may be interested in his potential availability is Everton, who has reportedly tabled an £18-million bid for the Ivorian.
Kone's statement read:
At the end of last season I was told by the club that I would be offered a new contract. Following numerous phone conversations and face-to-face meetings, the latest of which took place today with (manager) David Moyes and (chief executive) Martin Bain, no contract has been forthcoming.
It is therefore with much regret that I can only assume that I do not figure in David Moyes's future plans.
With that being the case it is with much sadness that I have asked the manager and the chief executive to be allowed to leave Sunderland Football Club.
However, until that time I give my word that I will give my utmost in training and on the field.
Everton is a front-runner for Kone's services and could lineup with a fresh centre-back pairing in the new season. Phil Jagielka, 33, struggled with knee issues last term and John Stones has departed for Manchester City, leaving Ashley Williams, a new signing from Swansea City, to potentially team up with Kone.
Chelsea has also registered an interest in Kone, according to the Guardian's Ed Aarons, but its efforts predominantly lie in trying to bring Kalidou Koulibaly in from Napoli.
Related: Koulibaly's agent confirms Chelsea interest
Moyes, meanwhile, worked to strengthen his Sunderland backline with Thursday's double swoop of Donald Love and Paddy McNair from Manchester United. Papy Djilobodji joined last week from Chelsea for a £8-million fee.
The Scot will man the Sunderland technical area for the first time in a competitive meeting Saturday at Manchester City.