Reports emerged on Monday about Liverpool’s move for RB Leipzig’s Ibrahima Konate. The Reds are expected to complete the signing of the French U-21 defender in the summer and are said to be in the advanced stages of a potential deal. The player has now responded to the links.
The Athletic’s David Ornstein reported on Monday, March 29, that Liverpool are closing in on a move for RB Leipzig defender Ibrahima Konate. The Reds are looking to reinvigorate their defence following a dismal campaign that saw three of their central defenders suffer long-term injuries.
Konate, meanwhile, commented on the speculation himself. The youngster is currently on international duty with France U-21. Le Bleuets are competing in the UEFA U-21 European Championships at the moment.
I woke up, I saw my phone ringing all over the place,
Konate told L’Equipe.
Frankly, I don’t even look at this. We can’t focus on that, there are the Euros and then my return to the club. You have to focus on that and not on the external things.
Leipzig’s sporting director, Markus Krosche, was quick to shoot down the rumours. He stated that the club intends to develop the player even further following an injury-hit season.
I can’t say anything on that topic. I think that this is not an option for Ibu,
Krosche said.
We want to help him to further develop, and we play internationally, have a very good team, so I don’t see a reason for him to leave us.
Keeping Konate and the club may be out of Krosche’s hands. The Frenchman is said to have a release clause in his Leipzig contract with a value of €40 million. Should Liverpool trigger the clause, they will be free to talk to the player directly. As such, Ornstein claims that the Reds are finalising a deal for the player and his capture could be confirmed soon by the club.
Konate, who joined Leipzig from Sochaux in 2017, will not be the only defender departing the club in the summer. Bayern Munich have already confirmed the signing of Dayot Upamecano for the upcoming season. The Bavarians negotiated a deal with their Bundesliga rivals earlier this season, ending the race for the hot prospect.
