Al-Ittihad monitor Abdoul Kone as Leipzig defender struggles for game time

Al-Ittihad are considering a move for young French defender Abdoul Kone, who has made only one appearance for RB Leipzig since joining the Bundesliga club.

According to Foot Mercato, the Saudi Roshn League side are monitoring Kone’s situation and could explore a deal when the winter transfer window opens in January.

The 21-year-old centre-back has found regular first-team football difficult to secure since moving to Germany. His lack of opportunities could increase the possibility of a departure during the winter window, with Al-Ittihad assessing whether to make an approach early in the new year.

Kone joined RB Leipzig from Stade de Reims in January in a transfer worth 21m euros. He was immediately loaned back to the French club for the remainder of that season.

During his time at Stade de Reims, Kone made 28 appearances in the French second division as he continued his development before completing his move to Germany last summer.

His start at RB Leipzig has been challenging. The defender has played just once for the club this season, featuring against Elversberg on 24 October.

Kone was introduced for only three minutes in that match, which RB Leipzig won 4-0 in the Bundesliga. It remains his sole appearance for the German side this campaign.

That limited involvement has attracted Al-Ittihad’s attention as they assess potential defensive additions for the January transfer window. The Saudi club are understood to be considering whether Kone could be available for a move.

Kone has also represented France Under-20s, making four appearances for the national team. He is additionally eligible to represent Cote d’Ivoire, as he holds Ivorian nationality.

The fixture listings associated with the teams show Al-Ittihad facing Neom in the Saudi Roshn League on 6 November 2026, while RB Leipzig are scheduled to play Augsburg in the Bundesliga on 7 November 2026.