Amadou Kone is attracting strong interest from West Ham United, Leeds United and Atalanta as the Ivory Coast international considers a potential return to European football just a year after leaving Reims.
The 21-year-old midfielder, currently under contract with Neom in the Saudi Pro League, has emerged as a target for three clubs across England and Italy, according to French outlet Foot Mercato.
West Ham and Leeds are reported to be competing to bring Kone back to English football. The Hammers are looking to strengthen their squad ahead of next season, with rebuilding a priority following their relegation to the Championship, the second tier of English football. Promotion back to the Premier League remains their main objective.
Leeds, who have been rebuilding their own squad in recent seasons as they seek to re-establish themselves among England’s leading clubs, are also said to be in the race for the midfielder, viewing him as a potential addition to bolster their options in the centre of the pitch.
Italian interest from Atalanta
Kone’s profile is not only drawing attention in England. Foot Mercato also reports that Atalanta, currently competing in Serie A, are keen to sign the player.
The Bergamo club have built a reputation for identifying and developing young talent, and see Kone as a possible reinforcement in midfield as they look to remain competitive domestically and in Europe.
Kone’s situation in Saudi Arabia
Kone left Reims only 12 months ago to join Neom in Saudi Arabia, but his performances there have been enough to ensure he has not dropped off the radar of European clubs.
He remains under contract with the Saudi Pro League side, meaning any move would require an agreement between Neom and the interested clubs over a transfer fee.
The midfielder’s status as a full Ivory Coast international is also a factor in his appeal, with his age and experience making him an intriguing option for clubs planning for both the short and long term.
Busy days ahead in the transfer window
With interest from two English sides and one Italian club, Kone’s future is expected to be a talking point in the coming days of the transfer window.
No agreement has yet been reported between Neom and any of the suitors, but the level of interest suggests that negotiations could develop quickly as the clubs firm up their plans for next season.
As it stands, Kone remains a Neom player, but his situation will be closely watched in both England and Italy as West Ham, Leeds and Atalanta weigh up their next moves.
