Arsenal and Chelsea had shown interest in Mohamed Koné, but it was Palmeiras who managed to secure the signing of the young Ivorian defender.
As reported by local insider outlet Nosso Palestra, the Brazilian club have finalised terms for his first professional contract, closing the door on European giants who had tracked him since his time in Africa.
Koné, who turns 18 on October 20, will sign a three-year deal with a €100m release clause. Palmeiras initially paid €350k to JEK FC in Ivory Coast for his rights, and are now investing a further €1.1m to increase their stake. The package also includes performance-related bonuses of €1m.
Barcelona had even made an official offer before his move to Brazil, but Palmeiras convinced the youngster with their project led by academy director João Paulo Sampaio, the player’s agents. Chelsea and Arsenal were attentive to his progress, but for now the defender will continue his development in São Paulo.
Palmeiras see Koné as a future major sale, with plans for him to step into the professional squad by early 2026. The starlet had already been training with Palmeiras for about two years, but the definitive acquisition of his rights has only been completed now.
Since arriving in São Paulo in September 2023, Mohamed Koné has only been able to feature in unofficial matches due to his age and foreign status. However, the youngster has been taking Portuguese lessons three times a week, and is already fluent, which the club hope will accelerate his adaptation before Europe inevitably returns with new offers.
