The race for Ismael Kone is heating up, and with a €35 million release clause on the table until the end of July, Serie A's biggest clubs are lining up for the Canadian midfielder. Inter Milan, AC Milan, and Juventus are all reportedly in the mix for the Sassuolo star, who has been one of the standout performers in Italy this season.
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, talks are expected to ramp up before the World Cup, where Kone will play a key role for Canada. Sassuolo CEO Giovanni Carnevali has acknowledged the growing interest, saying, "I haven't spoken with Inter or Milan about Kone, but we've had some requests from foreign clubs. It's possible an Inter-Milan derby could emerge. We need to find the best situation for him, but for us too."
Milan's sporting director, Igli Tare, has already publicly confirmed the Rossoneri's interest, and with the release clause set at a fixed fee, the battle will likely come down to the player's preference rather than a bidding war. Inter and Juventus are also circling, making this a tough fight for Kone's signature.
With interest from abroad as well, Italian clubs will need to act quickly to avoid missing out on the dynamic midfielder. Kone heads into the summer with serious leverage, having established himself as one of Serie A's most energetic and creative forces in the middle of the park. Whether he stays in Italy or moves abroad, this is shaping up to be one of the summer's most intriguing transfer sagas.
