Atalanta Bergamo has officially completed the permanent signing of Odilon Kossounou from Bayer 04 Leverkusen, cementing the Ivorian defender’s future at the Italian Serie A club.
Following a season-long loan, the transfer was finalized after intense negotiations, marking a significant addition to Atalanta’s backline. This article delves into the details of the deal, Kossounou’s impact at the club, and his impressive career achievements.
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Impactful Loan Spell Despite Injury
Bayer Leverkusen confirmed that the option to purchase Kossounou, initially loaned to Atalanta, has been activated. The defender, who joined the Nerazzurri in the 2024/25 season, will now remain in Bergamo on a long-term contract until June 2029. Leverkusen’s sporting director, Simon Rolfes, expressed his satisfaction with Kossounou’s development, stating, “Odilon was an important factor in our team during the most successful year in the club’s history. We are pleased that he has been able to integrate so well in Bergamo and wish him continued success.”
During his first season at Atalanta, Kossounou appeared in 23 matches across various competitions. He started in 16 of these games, contributing notably with two assists in the UEFA Champions League. Despite a significant setback caused by surgery for a torn tendon that sidelined him from mid-January to mid-April, the defender managed to establish himself as a reliable presence in the squad. His performances solidified Atalanta’s desire to retain him permanently, even though negotiations over the transfer fee proved challenging.
Negotiations and Final Agreement
Atalanta’s management was keen to secure Kossounou but aimed to reduce the initially agreed €25 million transfer fee due to the injury period and the €5.2 million already spent on the loan.
After extensive talks, Bayer Leverkusen agreed to lower the fee to €20 million. However, the final arrangement was more than a mere activation of the purchase option; it involved a fresh negotiation that brought the total cost of the transfer to €25 million. This figure represents a fair valuation for the defender’s potential and previous accomplishments.
Kossounou’s Career Milestones
Odilon Kossounou, born in 2001, boasts a remarkable track record before joining Atalanta. He lifted two Belgian league titles and a domestic Super Cup with Club Brugge, showcasing early promise. His move to Bayer Leverkusen further elevated his career, where he was part of the squad that won the Bundesliga, DFB-Pokal, and German Super Cup in 2024. Internationally, he proudly represented Ivory Coast, winning the Africa Cup of Nations in 2023 and earning 25 caps to date.
The Percassi and Pagliuca families, along with the entire Atalanta organization, warmly welcomed Kossounou’s permanent commitment to the club. They extended their best wishes for both his personal growth and professional success as he continues wearing the black-and-blue jersey. Atalanta’s fans can look forward to the Ivorian’s defensive solidity and experience as the team pursues domestic and European ambitions in the coming seasons.
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FAQs
Who is Odilon Kossounou?
An Ivorian central defender who has played for Club Brugge, Bayer Leverkusen, and Atalanta.
How did he perform at Atalanta?
He made 23 appearances and provided two Champions League assists despite injury setbacks.
What was the transfer fee?
Atalanta paid a total of €25 million, including the loan and purchase fees.
What titles has Kossounou won?
Belgian league titles, German Bundesliga, DFB-Pokal, Super Cups, and the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.
How long is his contract with Atalanta?
His deal runs until June 2029.
