Blackpool manager Ian Evatt has expressed pride in striker Kylian Kouassi as the 23-year-old faces a likely departure from Bloomfield Road before Tuesday's transfer deadline. The Seasiders boss confirmed significant interest in the forward from Colchester United and Rotherham United, with the final decision resting with the player himself.
This news comes as Blackpool sit top of League One with seven points from their opening three games. They have scored seven goals and conceded just two, a strong defensive record they will look to maintain in their next fixture away to Barnsley on September 2nd.
Kylian Kouassi's path to the first team has become congested following the return of Jerry Yates to the club last week. When all attacking options are fully fit, Kouassi is expected to find himself further down the pecking order. The striker joined Blackpool in 2023 but spent the last two seasons out on loan, first at Salford City and then at Cambridge United. He returned for pre-season this summer and was utilised in the opening weeks of the campaign due to injuries to other forwards.
Evatt's admission makes the situation clear. "There’s a lot of interest in Kylian, and I’m so pleased for him," the manager said. The club is not standing in his way, and a move before the window shuts at 11pm on September 1st is now anticipated.
Ian Evatt was open about the potential for further activity at Blackpool before the deadline passes. While Kouassi looks set for an exit, the manager did not rule out the possibility of a new arrival. "You never really know, I think we’re always active and Simon’s (Sadler) support has been phenomenal since I’ve come," Evatt stated.
The manager's primary focus, however, was on the player potentially leaving. He made a point of praising Kouassi's attitude and development, describing himself as "proud" of the striker. This public endorsement could serve him well as he seeks a new club where regular football is more assured. Fans can track any further squad changes on the club's official squad page.
Blackpool's strong early form, has been built on a solid all-round team performance. Losing a squad player like Kouassi may not disrupt the core group, but it does trim the attacking options. The return of Jerry Yates provides experienced cover and competition for places up front.
The team's immediate focus will shift to maintaining their league position. Their next challenge is a trip to face Barnsley, who currently sit 9th in the table. This match schedule, will be a good test of their early-season credentials. The positive goal difference of +5 shows they are creating and taking chances, which will be vital against tougher opposition.
With the deadline looming, Evatt and his staff will be weighing their options. The departure of Kylian Kouassi seems a logical step for a player needing games and a club looking to simplify its squad. Any potential incoming business would be a bonus for a group already performing well. The final days of the window will determine if the squad that started the season remains intact or sees further tweaks.
