Sunderland’s new manager David Moyes has started to work on the squad at the Stadium of Light from last season and has added a few players already this summer. However, the former Manchester United manager will now have to make sure that he does not loose top class players to bigger clubs in the League. But one such player who may be on his way out of the club is Lamine Kone. Kone has been extensively linked with a move to Everton in the last few days and it is understood that Sunderland want around £20m for the player this summer. However, it is also revealed that Moyes is not ready to part ways with the player unless he finds an able replacement for Kone this summer. So let’s take a look at 3 possible replacements for Lamine Kone at Sunderland.
Phil Jagielka (Everton)
Though not a really plausible option, Sunderland are trying to lure Phil Jagielka out of Everton as a part of the deal that will see Kone move to the Merseyside this summer. Reports have suggested the Moyes is in search of a decent defender who can replace Kone at the club and it is understood that he has put forth the notion of exchanging Jagielka as a part of the deal to land Kone.
The 33-year old Everton defender is an experienced personnel who has played over 500 games in England domestic football. He has made 264 appearances for Everton and is easily one of their best defenders in recent times. He also played a huge role in Koeman’s side that drew with the Spurs in the first game of the season and will be a great option for Sunderland if they can get their hands on him. However, it is hard to see Koeman let the veteran leave this summer.
Kara Mbodji (Anderlecht)
The 26-year old Senegalese international is an important part of his national side for more than 5 years now. He moved to Anderlecht from Genk last summer and made 32 appearances for the club scoring 2 goals. He is a strong centre-half who will suit Moyes’ style of play at Sunderland and his experience in other domestic leagues will bring more to the Sunderland dressing room and will help improve the quality of the whole unit.
He may not be able replace Kone immediately (from his performances from the previous season), but he can be a top-class defender with enough game time under his belt. Moyes is reportedly keeping tabs on the 27-year old should he need to swoop into the transfer market for additions and Mbodji is not a bad option for him this summer.
Shane Duffy (Blackburn Rovers)
The exciting 24-year old Northern Ireland international is another centre back that David Moyes has got his eyes on this summer. The former Everton defender has played for a number of clubs in England over the years and has been plying his trade with the Rovers for two seasons now. He has made 60 appearances in the time for the Championship outfit and has learnt a lot about the game.
At his age, he has great potential to grow on to become one of the best in the country and a move to Sunderland may be a perfect one for both parties. With Kone gone, Duffy has every chance of cementing a place in the starting XI and if he can impress the new manager at the Stadium of Light, he will be an important part of the squad for years to come. His experience with club and country will also go a long way in helping the Black Cats next season if he makes the move. There will be a certain degree of risk involved in the move, though.
Who do you think Sunderland should sign in place of Kone this summer?
