€63m ace is 'very happy' after decison to join Liverpool vindicated

New signing Ibrahima Konate has described his Liverpool debut as 'unforgettable' despite the Reds drawing 1-1 as he gets minutes in the tank ahead of the start of the Premier League season.

The Frenchman, who joined the club this summer as part of a package deal worth a total worth €63m, was solid in his 30-minute debut for the Reds.

Liverpool spent months negotiating with RBL to bring Konate to Anfield, first starting talks in December before Dayot Upamecano was snatched up by Bayern Munich, prompting the Reds to accelerate their negotiations.

Sporting director Michael Edwards worked with such efficiency that by the time that Manchester United approached Leipzig, they were told he had already agreed on personal terms with Liverpool.

Konate had a solid debut for the Reds even though he should have done better for the goal that Liverpool conceded.

That said, on more than one occasion, he showed his incredible recovery pace to stop a Stuttgart counter attacker.

Liverpool signed him due to his ability to defend in 1 v 1 scenarios and he has already shown he's able to handle himself.

Speaking to Liverpoolfc.com, Konate said: “Yes, I am very happy. It’s an unforgettable moment for me.

“Yes, without our fans – but I am very, very happy. Just a little bit sad – very sad – because we didn’t win. But it’s OK, I’m happy.

“I was very happy with the team on the pitch; good communication with everybody.

“Step by step we will be better, this is the first time in pre-season. We are waiting for the next game.”