RB Leipzig have expressed their satisfaction after completing the signing of highly rated French-Ivorian defender Abdoul Kone.
The 20-year-old centre-back has joined the Bundesliga side from Stade Reims after agreeing a long-term contract that will keep him at the Red Bull Arena until June 30, 2031.
As part of the agreement, Leipzig have decided to loan Kone back to Reims for the remainder of the current campaign.
Kone will therefore continue his development with Stade Reims in Ligue 2 until the end of the season before officially linking up with RB Leipzig ahead of the 2026/27 season, allowing him to gain further experience in a familiar environment.
RB Leipzig sporting director Marcel Schäfer expressed his delight at securing the defender’s signature despite heavy competition.
“We are delighted to have signed Abdoul despite strong competition and to have secured such a talented centre-back. Abdoul is a tall and physical defender who is strong in tackles and heading, and possesses extremely high top speed,” Schäfer said.
He also highlighted Kone’s technical qualities and versatility, adding, “He’s also a reliable passer, likes to get involved in build-up play, and displays a high level of intensity overall. Because of these strengths, he can also play on the right wing. Abdoul will finish the season in Reims and continue his development there, but will then wear the RB Leipzig jersey from the summer onwards.”
The move underlines RB Leipzig’s long-term planning as they look to blend youthful potential with physical and technical quality, with Kone viewed as a key part of the club’s defensive future.
