Allardyce reportedly to pursue the player that once helped him escape relegation

According to reports, Everton manager Sam Allardyce is keen on reuniting with Sunderland centre-back Lamine Kone next month.

Big Sam brought the Ivory Coast star to the Stadium of Light in January 2016, and he helped play pivotal roles at both ends of the pitch as the Black Cats escaped relegation at the end of the campaign.

Kone hasn’t been at his best since, though, with Sunderland battling relegation in the Championship while he’s currently down with a knee injury.

However, Allardyce is convinced he can bring the best out of the 28-year-old again if he’s able to keep fit.

The Black Cats are willing to let Kone go due to his wages, and Everton could finally land their man after failing in an attempt to last summer.

The Merseysiders have been poor at the back this term, leaking 29 goals in 16 Premier League games – a number only “bettered” by Stoke and West Ham.

Kone can provide aerial dominance and physical strength at the back for Allardyce’s men, and his addition to the rearguard can help them push strongly for a top 10 finish during the second half of the campaign.