'Means extra in the kitty!': Sunderland fans hoping for transfer boost after defender departure

Kone, a one-time fans' favourite during the Sam Allardyce era, has penned a deal with French side Strasbourg having spent the last season on loan with the Ligue 1 side.

And while his permanent exit comes as little surprise, fans have been quick to offer their thoughts on the deal received by the Black Cats.

Here's the best of the reaction from social media:

@DannyBaister said: "Is it too late to accept that offer from Everton??"

@RamseySAFC commented: "And that just leaves Catts from Big Sam's excellent starting XI. Only 3 years ago man"

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@kielwatson added: "fantastic news"

@braddfearnleyy tweeted: "Now announce Curtis Nelson"

@michaeleve_safc posted: "Can't see that tackle on #YayaToure anywhere. Possibly the best wiping out of a high class player ever seen at the SoL."

@ABowens07 commented: "Hefty wage off the books. Means extra in the kitty for this summers rebuild"

READ: Every Sunderland player rated in our end-of-season marks

@chodgson2002 tweeted: "Always will be one of my favourites just from the big Sam season good luck to him"

@rossrobson said: "You wonder what might have been different for both Sunderland and Kone if we HAD accepted that £20m bid from @Everton"

@LiamJordanSAFC5 posted: "Now we need to get some players in"

@redjasper73 added: "Good another rotten egg off the payroll