Samba Koné is drawing strong interest from Danish giants FC Copenhagen, as the Malian international prepares for what could be his next step in European football during the upcoming summer transfer window.
Currently under contract with Portuguese second division side Académico de Viseu until June 2025, the 23-year-old midfielder has emerged as a key target for Copenhagen, with discussions already under way.
According to reports from Africasoccer, the Danish Superliga champions are willing to pay a transfer fee of €600,000 to secure his services.
Standing at 1.90 metres, Koné is known for his versatility in midfield. Whether deployed as a defensive shield or a box-to-box presence, his physical profile and tactical intelligence have made him an appealing option for Copenhagen manager Jacob Neestrup, who is reportedly keen on integrating the Malian into his squad as they prepare for both domestic and European challenges next season.
Koné’s journey through professional football has not been without its challenges. Having featured in the youth systems of CD Leganés in Spain and FC Porto in Portugal, his early promise was hampered by a series of injuries that stalled his progression.
However, since joining Académico de Viseu in 2023, he has shown renewed form and consistency, appearing in 25 matches across all competitions this season. His contributions — two goals and one assist — have added substance to his growing reputation in Portugal’s Liga Portugal 2.
The resurgence of his career at Viseu has not gone unnoticed. In addition to interest from Copenhagen, Koné has reportedly attracted attention from fellow Portuguese side CD Tondela and Swiss outfit FC Sion. However, it is the Danish capital where his next chapter may unfold, should a deal be finalised in the coming weeks.
A potential move to FC Copenhagen would mark Koné’s third stint in a European league, having already experienced spells in Spain and Portugal. Such a transfer would not only represent a significant leap in competition but also a chance to compete in UEFA competitions — a platform that could further elevate his profile and cement his return to top form.
Despite his relatively modest output in terms of goals and assists, Koné’s strength lies in his positional awareness, ability to break up play, and distribute with composure.
His towering presence in the midfield provides a balance of physicality and technique that aligns well with the tactical demands of the Danish game.
As the summer transfer window approaches, all eyes will now be on whether FC Copenhagen can finalise terms with Académico de Viseu and secure the signature of one of Mali’s emerging midfield talents.
For Samba Koné, the move could offer both the opportunity for regular top-flight football and the platform to reignite the trajectory that once saw him heralded as one of West Africa’s promising young prospects.
