Blackpool forward Kylian Kouassi has completed a permanent transfer to Colchester United. The 23-year-old's move was confirmed by the BBC on April 12, 2024, ending his time with the Seasiders after joining in 2023.
Colchester United announced the deal alongside the signing of Crawley Town midfielder Jay Williams. "Colchester United have made two deadline-day signings, bringing in Blackpool forward Kylian Kouassi and Crawley Town midfielder Jay Williams, both for undisclosed fees," the club said. The moves brought Colchester's summer signings to ten by that date.
Kylian Kouassi spent the last two seasons away from Bloomfield Road on loan. He played for Salford City during the 2024-25 campaign before moving to Cambridge United for the 2025-26 season. At Cambridge, he made 14 appearances in League Two. His time with Blackpool included a memorable goal in a 3-1 EFL Cup victory over Grimsby Town.
His departure comes as Blackpool enjoy a positive start to the current campaign. Neil Critchley's side sit third in League One with seven points from four matches. Their recent form reads LWWD, and they have scored eight goals while conceding just four.
Kouassi's permanent exit follows two consecutive loan spells, indicating he was not in the immediate first-team plans. The forward's contract at Blackpool was due to expire, making this a logical conclusion for both parties. Blackpool's current attacking options will be assessed on the squad page.
The club's focus is firmly on maintaining their strong league position. They are just three points behind leaders Huddersfield Town as the early season unfolds. Their next challenge is an away trip to face Reading on September 5th. Reading currently occupy 14th place in the table.
Blackpool's start has been built on a solid defensive foundation and productive attack. With a goal difference of plus four, they have shown balance in their opening fixtures. The team's ability to score consistently will be key as they aim to close the gap at the top.
Fans can review the detailed numbers behind this start on our stats section. The immediate schedule continues with the Reading fixture, part of a run of games listed on our fixtures page. The team travels to the Select Car Leasing Stadium looking to add to their two wins and one draw so far.
