Stade de Reims’ Abdoul Koné (20) is set to join Red Bull Leipzig in a deal worth just over €20m, according to a report from Le Parisien.

Koné had been the subject of interest from several clubs, including AS Monaco, with the Principality club looking to sign the defender on a ‘joker’ deal outside the transfer window amid an injury crisis. However, their approach was rebuffed and Koné instead signed a contract extension with Les Stadistes. 

Regardless, the defender was expected to leave. But there were terms. Firstly, Reims’ demands had to be met, and the Ligue 2 club also insisted on Koné finishing out the season with the club, as they look to make a swift return to Ligue 1.

RB Leipzig have managed to meet both of those demands. The Bundesliga giants will pay a little over €20m (including bonuses). There is already an agreement in principle in place between all parties. Reims will maintain a sell-on percentage. The defender is set to sign a five-year deal with RB Leipzig.