Simon Phillips: Kouadio Kone could be an ideal replacement for N’Golo Kante at Chelsea
Journalist Simon Philips believes Kouadio Kone and Enzo Fernandez could work well together as Kone has become one of the better young midfielders in Europe, while Chelsea have also expressed interest in signing him.
Kone is currently among the most in-demand midfielders in Europe, with Paris Saint-Germain expressing interest in the player and Newcastle having a £31 million offer for the player rejected last summer.
As Borussia Monchengladbach looks to restructure in the summer, Kone’s initial offer is currently thought to be around £27 million. Despite the high level of interest, Monchengladbach are not under any obligation to let go of the midfielder despite Kone’s deal expiring in 2025 (Transfermarkt), and the club have the choice to extend it by an additional year.
Who is Kouadio Kone?
At Gladbach, Kone is having a breakout season. the 21-year-old has seen more action in the Bundesliga this campaign compared to any other Monchengladbach player. The French youth international had completed 129 passes this season, which was sixth-best in the league, before their challenging away match against RB Leipzig.
Kone can also win possession with his relentless pressing despite, he possesses excellent passing statistics and can glide across the field. Prior to the weekend’s games, only Jude Bellingham had more victories in duels.
Prominent journalist Philips commented in response to GiveMeSport’s inquiry on Chelsea’s proposed acquisition of Kone.
“Chelsea still likes the player; they’re still looking at him. They feel he could be a good partner for Fernandez and a long-term replacement for Kante.”
Kone’s numbers speak for themselves and show that he might be a terrific player for Chelsea if we are able to sign him. He could hope to be one of the youngsters Chelsea build their team around for the future. Conor Gallagher, Enzo, Mason Mount (if he stays), Carney Chukwuemeka, and Cesare Casadei are our options in that position.
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Even if we extend Kante’s contract, it’s good to start planning for the future. Jorginho left us this January while Kante is 31. If Kone makes sense financially, the Blues would be wise to sign a complete midfielder like him.