Al Ittihad are considering a move for RB Leipzig defender Abdoul Kone during the January transfer window, with the 21-year-old’s lack of playing time in Germany potentially opening the door to a departure.
According to Foot Mercato, the Saudi Arabian club are monitoring the France Under? No, source doesn't say U-level. Avoid. young centre-back and could make an approach as they look to sign him in the winter market.
Kone, who is of Ivorian descent, joined Leipzig in January last year after coming through the academy at Stade de Reims. The German club paid about 21m euros for his services before immediately loaning him back to the French side for the remainder of the season.
During that loan spell, Kone made 28 appearances in Ligue 2 for Reims. His move to the Bundesliga has, however, brought a significant reduction in opportunities.
The defender has played in only one official match for RB Leipzig this season. His sole appearance lasted three minutes, when he came on against Elversberg on 24 October in a 4-0 victory.
That limited involvement could lead to a move in January, with Al Ittihad potentially offering Kone the chance to revive his career in Saudi Arabia. The club are continuing to assess his situation before deciding whether to pursue a deal.
Any transfer would also depend on the stance of RB Leipzig, who made a substantial investment to sign the defender. Kone remains under contract with the Bundesliga club until 30 June 2031, while his estimated market value is 15m euros.
RB Leipzig are next due to face Manchester City in the fourth round of the league phase of the Champions League.