Atalanta and Bayer Leverkusen are currently embroiled in tense negotiations regarding the permanent transfer of defender Odilon Kossounou. The Italian club is pushing for a reduction in the agreed €25 million fee, citing the player`s extended absence due to injury during his loan period.
Kossounou joined Atalanta last summer on a loan deal worth €5.2 million, with an option to make the move permanent for an additional €25 million. Now that the season has concluded, Atalanta is keen to finalize the transfer but is seeking a more favorable financial arrangement.
The Bergamo-based club`s argument for a discount stems from Kossounou`s limited participation this season. The Ivorian defender made only 22 appearances across all competitions, with his campaign significantly disrupted by a severe injury in January.
Three-Month Absence Due to Serious Injury
Kossounou`s season was derailed by a torn tendon in his right thigh`s adductor muscle, sidelining him for three months. The injury was so severe that it required surgical intervention, performed by specialist Dr. Ramon Cugat in Barcelona.
Despite Atalanta`s efforts to negotiate, Bayer Leverkusen is standing firm on the original agreement, according to Sky Sports Deutschland transfer expert Florian Plettenberg. The German club insists on receiving the full €25 million for Kossounou, threatening to recall the player and explore other transfer options if their demands are not met.
At 24 years old, the Ivory Coast international does not feature in Bayer Leverkusen`s plans for the upcoming season, adding urgency to the ongoing negotiations between the two clubs.