Olympique Marseille has officially announced the departure of 23-year-old Ismaël Koné. The midfielder makes a move to US Sassuolo on a loan deal that includes an option for a permanent transfer. While the exact fee remains undisclosed, reports suggest the option could be exercised for approximately €12.5 million. This permanent clause is reportedly contingent on Sassuolo successfully maintaining their Serie A status this season.
Koné, a Canadian international, originally joined Marseille on a permanent basis last summer from Watford FC. However, he found it challenging to establish himself and settle into the team environment in La Provence under head coach Roberto De Zerbi. Consequently, the midfielder was sent out on loan during the winter transfer window, joining Stade Rennais.
During his tenure at Rennes, Koné featured in 13 appearances and even managed to find the back of the net twice. Notably, one of his goals came against his parent club during a 4-2 defeat that concluded the season. Despite these contributions, he struggled to secure a consistent place in the starting lineup, spending the majority of his loan spell primarily as a late substitute.