Ismael Koné shone again in the Milan clash, further enticing the Rossoneri to try to snap him up next season amid a likely overhaul of their midfield. They won’t be alone in that regard, though. His situation is pretty straightforward, given a release clause in his contract, Calciomercato reports.
Sassuolo acquired him in a €13M package after he had a falling out with then Olympique Marseille boss Roberto De Zerbi, plus a slice of a future sale. His valuation is around €30M, but he can be poached for €35M.
Milan director Igli Tare was quizzed about Koné by DAZN before the game (via Tribuna).
“He’s had an excellent season; he has precise traits and has already played at a high level. He could be one of Sassuolo’s summer protagonists.”
Neroverdi CEO Giovanni Carnevali also weighed in.
“I haven’t talked about him with either the Rossoneri or Inter. We received requests from foreign clubs. He has international suitors because he’s very valuable. We’ll search for the best possible solution.”
There’ll likely be revolving doors in the midfield at San Siro. The front office is open for business about Youssouf Fofana and Ruben Loftus-Cheek. Samuele Ricci and Ardon Jashari are under scrutiny, too. The brass believes Luka Modric will either re-up with them or retire.
Our Take on Milan and Koné
He can easily fit in any side that plays with a three-man midfield thanks to his motor and quality in the final third. Still, it’s not so sure he’d be a major upgrade over what they have already. His valuation is hefty, and Sassuolo are tough bargainers. Activating release clauses is pretty rare in Serie A due to their generally rigid payment structures.