Transfer Centre

Lamine Kone expresses desire to leave Sunderland

By Giuseppe Labellarte, Reporter | 12 August 2016

Sunderland defender Lamine Kone tells manager David Moyes that he wants to leave the club after failing to offer him the improved deal that they said they would.

Lamine Kone has revealed that he wants to leave Sunderland because of the club supposedly reneging on a promise to offer the Ivory Coast international a new contract.

The 27-year-old, a reported target for Everton, joined the Black Cats from French club Lorient in January and helped Sam Allardyce's side avoid relegation last season.

Kone told Sky Sports News: "At the end of last season I was told by the club that I would be offered a new contract. Following numerous phone conversation and face-to-face meetings, the latest of which took place today with David Moyes and 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."

Sunderland begin the Premier League season away to Manchester City on Saturday.