French daily newspaper L’Equipe understands that Sunderland are wrapping up the deal for Lorient defender Lamine Kone.
The Black Cats are again involved in the Premier League relegation tussle and having conceded 30 goals in 16 league fixtures, they clearly hope to reinforce the back line in January.
Sunderland officials appear to have worked hard on keeping their interest in Lorient centre-back Lamine Kone a secret as L’Equipe now claims that the transfer is set to be completed.
The two clubs have agreed a deal reportedly worth several million euros and the transfer should be made official in the coming days.
Boasting over 130 appearances in France’s top flight, Kone arrives in England with a decent reputation, although it remains to be seen whether he can quickly adapt to the Premier League level.
Sam Allardyce has used the likes of John O’Shea, Younes Kaboul and Sebastian Coates in the heart of defence this term and now Kone should challenge for the starting berth as well.