Arouna Kone hints at Crystal Palace switch

Wigan striker Arouna Kone is open to a move to Premier League newcomers Crystal Palace. The forward will quit his current club this summer as he is eager to return to England's top flight.

There had been some talk that West Bromwich Albion were chasing the talented forward, but instead it appears that Palace are in pole position to sign the striker.

"You always have ambitions as a footballer, and I don’t intend to play in the English second division," he said.

"Wigan have gone down, which is a real shame. It’s up to them to set out their stance about my situation. I aim to play for one of the best clubs in England, and I hope I will get the chance.

"Crystal Palace have gone up, and from the moment a club is in the Premier League that is good for me."