Liverpool are increasing their wing to hijack Manchester United targets ahead of the summer transfer window, and he can now be had for a reduced price.
The Reds are looking for a new defender after a review of Konate’s future
Iraima Konate has stepped up to the plate in the last month or so, helping the Reds keep clean sheets in wins against Sunderland, Brighton and Nottingham Forest, although he could do nothing to stop Mario Lemina from scoring against Galatasaray last week.
The Turkish side hold a narrow 1-0 lead going into tonight’s Champions League last 16 second leg, with Konate back in action after missing the 1-1 draw with Tottenham Hotspur at the weekend with a pulled hamstring.
The French player may put himself in the shop window as he played well tonight, as his future at Anfield is still unclear, as his contract expires at the end of the season.
Transfer reporter Pete O’Rourke explained: “We know that Liverpool will probably have a big change in the center of defense in the summer.
“Ibrahima Konate’s future is still to be seen, we don’t know if he will sign a new contract or leave the club for free. Virgil van Dijk is not young yet, and Joe Gomez doesn’t have much time left in his contract, is it possible that he will also continue?
“There will definitely be ins and outs in Liverpool’s central area.”
Liverpool are in pursuit of a “world-class” defender.
As Liverpool look to make major changes to their defense this summer, they have been inquiring about signing Inter Milan star Alessandro Bastoni, according to a report from Sport (via Sport Witness).
The Reds have been chasing Bastoni for a while, but in a new development, it has been revealed that Inter’s asking price has dropped to €50m (£43m) from around €80m (£69m).
Man United are also in contention for the Italian’s signature, but Arne Slot’s side are now trying to usurp their rivals, and it’s no surprise, given the quality of some of his performances this season…
Indeed, there are signs that the 26-year-old could be the better of Konate, having outperformed the France international in several key stats this term.
|
Average out of 90 (league only) |
Alessandro Bastoni |
Ibrahima Konate |
|
Accurate passes |
64.0 |
57.0 |
|
Ideas |
1.0 |
0.8 |
|
Fighting |
2.0 |
0.7 |
|
It helps |
4 |
0 |
Praised as “world class” by journalist Matteo Bonetti, this Italian player who has played 41 times has proven himself to be at a high level, played 56 games in the Champions League, and played in the final twice with Inter.
Bonetti has experience of success at Anfield, but Liverpool may need to compete in the Champions League to ensure they win the race for his signature, between rivals Man United and Premier League leaders Arsenal.
