Well-respected journalist Fabrizio Romano says Liverpool consider Ibrahima Konate to be ‘one of the best centre-backs for the future’, with the French defender likely to join the club this summer.
Standing at 1.94m, it’s clear to see what makes Konate an exciting defender. His ability to dominate aerially while still being quick and decisive makes him a nightmare for attackers to play against.
The thought of him being partnered with van Dijk is a tantalising prospect and you can only imagine that the Reds would hardly ever concede from corners when you add Fabinho and Jordan Henderson’s height to the mix.
LEIPZIG, GERMANY – DECEMBER 08: Ibrahima Konate of RB Leipzig runs with the ball during the UEFA Champions League Group H stage match between RB Leipzig and Manchester United at Red Bull Arena on December 08, 2020 in Leipzig, Germany. PHOTO BY BORIS STREUBEL/GETTY IMAGES.
Romano told talkSPORT: “Liverpool are in talks with the agent, they’re trying to find out if they can sign the player. The deal is not done, it is not signed yet. They’re in talks with the player about the contract and everything – he has a release clause with Leipzig, who want €40m (£34.2m).
“It’s not done at the moment, they’re just waiting for the player. He’s one of the targets on the list, they want a new centre-back in the summer. It’s for sure not a done deal.
“He’s looking for a five-year contract, he’s so appreciated. The only issue could be about the injuries and we all know how it is for Liverpool at the moment so they will want to be careful.
TOPSHOT – Paris Saint-Germain’s Brazilian forward Neymar (R) vies for the ball with Leipzig’s French defender Ibrahima Konate during the UEFA Champions League Group H second-leg football match between Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and RB Leipzig at the Parc des Princes stadium in Paris on November 24, 2020. PHOTO BY FRANCK FIFE/AFP VIA GETTY IMAGES.
“Leipzig want Liverpool to pay the €40m release clause, they don’t want to negotiate about the price of Ibrahima Konate.
“Liverpool are convinced that he is one of the best centre-backs for the future. Some are saying that he could be better than [Dayot] Upamecano in the future. Imagine how much potential this player has.”
Konate will strengthen Liverpool after a season where they really missed Virgil van Dijk and Joe Gomez.
With both injured stars to return to fitness this summer, there will be some serious competition for a starting place in that back four and as far as Klopp is concerned, this is only a good thing.
