Liverpool have reportedly completed the signing of RB Leipzig’s defensive gem Ibrahima Konate, who has passed his medical.
Reliable transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has offered an update on Liverpool’s pursuit of Ibrahima Konate. The Premier League side appears to have moved one step closer towards sealing the transfer, with the player already passing his medical days ago.
Liverpool are expected to activate Konate’s €35 million release clause later this week, as they look to officially announce their first signing of the new season.
The RB Leipzig defender has been linked with a move to Anfield for a long-time now, in light of Liverpool’s injury-related woes in the defensive department that has forced Jurgen Klopp to enter the market this summer.
Konate has been identified as one of the top candidates, thanks to his stellar success in the Bundesliga with RB Leipzig. He is, in fact, regarded as one of the most talented young centre-backs in the German top-flight, especially after a breakthrough 2017/18 campaign.
The Frenchman, though, has been a bit unfortunate with injuries in recent years, especially with a torn muscle fibre in 2019. He has also been left frustrated by Julian Nagelsmann’s rotation policy that has barely seen him feature much in the Leipzig first-team this past season.
Liverpool, though, highly rate Konate for his tall frame and strength that makes him a commanding presence in the backline. Most importantly, the 22-year-old is an excellent ball-playing centre-back, who can not only read the game well but is also capable of winning back possession for his team.
It tunes in well with Jurgen Klopp’s tactical philosophy that does require aggression and physicality. Konate is blessed with raw pace as well, making him a well-rounded option for the Reds, although his potential arrival at Anfield does raise question marks over the future of Ozan Kabak.
The Turkish international was brought in from FC Schalke on loan, and though Liverpool have the option to make his move permanent, the Merseyside giants have expressed their desire to explore other alternatives, including Sevilla’s defensive rock Diego Carlos.
What will Ibrahima Konate bring to the table for Liverpool? | THT Opinions
Liverpool, though, could always rely on player sales to fund move for their top targets, with Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain among a few players to be linked with a move away from Anfield in the summer.
