Leeds United, Sunderland, and Derby County are reportedly in contention to sign former Nottingham Forest prospect Ateef Konate, according to Africa Foot. All three clubs will be competing in the Championship next season.
The Whites narrowly missed out on playoff glory in the final stages, while the Rams secured a 2nd place finish in League One. However, the Black Cats endured a disappointing campaign, finishing 16th in the league standings.
All three clubs, Leeds United, Sunderland, and Derby County, are reportedly interested in acquiring the services of departing Nottingham Forest talent Ateef Konate. The 23-year-old is poised to become a free agent as his contract at the City Ground nears its conclusion.
According to Africa Foot, Eredivisie clubs are also monitoring Konate, alongside Leeds United, Sunderland, and Derby County, as they seek to bolster their squads with astute acquisitions.
Konate, a versatile attacker who excels in the number 10 role but can also operate further forward or out wide, showcased his abilities by featuring in 17 league matches for Nottingham Forest’s U21 side last season. He contributed six goals and two assists as his team secured a spot in the Premier League 2 playoffs.
Having progressed through the ranks at Le Havre, Konate joined Nottingham Forest in 2021.
Ateef Konate could be considered a late bloomer, having emerged as a promising talent later in his career.
At 23 years old, Ateef Konate hasn’t accumulated many senior appearances. His loan stint at Oxford United in League One was brief, with just five appearances in the third tier, limiting his opportunity to establish himself and make an impact.
However, Konate’s release from Forest could ultimately be beneficial for his career, offering him the chance to secure a new club and begin gaining valuable experience in senior-level football. While he has shown a knack for goal-scoring, it remains to be seen if he can consistently contribute to teams like Leeds United or Sunderland. Nonetheless, he could prove to be a valuable asset in the second or third tier of English football.
Does Derby County have an advantage?
Last season, Derby County secured the second position in League One and are now gearing up for Championship football this summer.
However, Derby County’s season expectations will vary significantly from those of Leeds United and Sunderland. This contrast may give them an advantage in the competition to sign Konate.
Daniel Farke’s team narrowly missed out on promotion in the play-off final last Sunday and will be aiming for promotion this upcoming season. On the other hand, Sunderland had a subpar campaign but are likely targeting a top-six finish this season.
Given these differences, Konate might find more benefits in joining Derby County, where expectations for this season won’t be as high and opportunities for game time should be more readily available.