RB Leipzig have confirmed the signing of young defender Abdoul Koné, securing the Franco-Ivorian’s future with a long-term contract that will run until 30 June 2031.
The Bundesliga club announced the completion of the deal on Thursday through their official communication channels. Koné, who joins from Stade de Reims, has agreed a five-and-a-half-year contract with the German side, underlining Leipzig’s continued commitment to recruiting and developing emerging talent.
Although the 20-year-old had recently extended his contract with the Champagne-based club until 2029, an agreement was reached during the winter transfer window for his permanent transfer.
The fee for the move is estimated at around €16m. As part of the arrangement, Koné will remain with Reims on loan to complete the current Ligue 2 season before officially linking up with RB Leipzig ahead of the 2026-27 campaign.
The move represents another significant step in the defender’s early career. Having previously played for Paris FC, Koné has continued his development at Reims, where his performances have attracted interest beyond France.
Leipzig’s decision to secure him for the long term reflects the club’s strategy of identifying young players with strong potential and integrating them gradually into their first-team structure.
Speaking on RB Leipzig’s official website, Koné expressed his satisfaction at completing the transfer and outlined his ambitions for the next phase of his career.
“I am truly delighted to be taking this next step in my career by joining RB Leipzig and to be able to play for this club from next summer. The club’s style of play and overall philosophy perfectly align with my personal development goals.”
He also highlighted the club’s reputation, particularly among French players, as a key factor in his decision.
“RB Leipzig enjoys an excellent international reputation, particularly in France. Many young players have shown in recent years how much progress is possible here, both as footballers and as people.
I’m thinking in particular of the French players in my position who have demonstrated what can be achieved in Leipzig within this exceptional environment.”
Despite the excitement surrounding the move, Koné stressed that his immediate focus remains with his current club as the season reaches its decisive stage.
“I’m already looking forward to summer, but until then I’m fully focused on the end of the season and on achieving the best possible results with Stade de Reims.”
With the agreement now finalised, Leipzig have laid the foundations for Koné’s arrival, while Reims retain the defender for the remainder of the campaign as he continues his development before the next chapter begins.
