The story of Lacine Koné: from arriving in Spain by boat to shining in Primera Federación

Ivorian striker Lacine Koné, who arrived in Spain by boat, has become a standout performer for Mérida in Primera Federación after joining from Alcalá for €50,000.

Lacine Koné, a 21-year-old striker from Ivory Coast, has made an immediate impact at Mérida after the club paid Alcalá €50,000 for his transfer on the final day of the market. The forward, who scored 10 goals in 16 matches for Alcalá in Segunda Federación last season, has formed a productive partnership with Sofiane and helped Mérida turn around a poor run of form with three consecutive victories. Manager Fran Beltrán believes Koné is operating at only 55% of his potential, having already scored twice in recent matches including a brace against Arenas de Getxo.