Angers SCO’s free-scoring centre-forward Jonathan Kodjia is becoming increasingly sought after, as the end of the current January transfer window draws ever closer. The 25-year-old has scored thirteen goals this season in Ligue 2 and is currently the league’s top scorer.
A move abroad in the current window is believed to be less likely for Kodjia, and this will come as a disappointment to West Bromwich Albion and Reading supporters, as it’s believed that both clubs are linked with the striker, with Tony Pulis’ side reported to be particularly interested.
According to an article published on Friday by L’Équipe, the Stade de Reims youth product is the subject of increasing interest from a host of clubs based in both Ligue 1 and abroad.
At times this season Kodjia has appeared to be a striker who has it all. With pace, composure in front of goal, strength, awareness, quick feet and height, marking the former Caen forward has seemed like an unenviable task for his Ligue 2 defensive counterparts. It’s believed that these attributes have drawn scouts from FC Nantes’ attention to the striker. Les Canaris, who are reportedly keen to offload Israeli striker Itay Schecter, currently face a transfer embargo, so they would be unable to make a move for the Angevin striker until the summer.
However, L’Équipe are reporting that solid interest from Montpellier and Rennes may lead to bids from both clubs before the current window closes. It’s also believed that Lille, who recently signed Kodjia’s ex-Angers teammate Sofiane Boufal, could make a move for the Paris-born striker in the next few days. If Kodjia does move to Ligue 1, it’s likely that Stéphane Moullin’s would attempt to attach a condition which would see their number 22 remain on loan at the Stade Jean-Bouin until the end of the season.
It should also be noted that Kodjia’s increasingly promising reputation hasn’t gone unnoticed on the continent, with European giants and regular UEFA Champions League contenders Ajax and Olympiakos both reported to be monitoring the centre-forward’s situation closely.