Liverpool are stepping up their pursuit to hijack a top Manchester United target ahead of the summer transfer window, and he could now be available for a cut-price fee.
Reds eyeing new defender after update on Konate’s future
Ibrahima Konate has stepped up to the plate over the past month or so, helping the Reds keep clean sheets in victories against Sunderland, Brighton and Nottingham Forest, although he was unable to do anything to stop Mario Lemina scoring for Galatasaray last week.
The Turkish side hold a slender 1-0 advantage heading into the second leg of the Champions League round of 16 tie tonight, and Konate is back available for selection, after missing the 1-1 draw against Tottenham Hotspur at the weekend due to a hamstring issue.
The Frenchman could put himself in the shop window with a top performance tonight, given that his future at Anfield is still uncertain, with his contract due to expire at the end of the season.
Transfer reporter Pete O’Rourke explained: “We know Liverpool are probably going to have a big overhaul in the centre of their defence come the summer.
“Ibrahima Konate’s future is still up in the air, we don’t know if he’s going to sign a new deal or leave the club on a free transfer. Virgil van Dijk isn’t getting any younger, and then Joe Gomez doesn’t have long left on his contract, could he potentially be moved on as well?
“There are definitely going to be ins and outs in that central area for Liverpool.”
Liverpool stepping up pursuit of “world-class” centre-back
With Liverpool looking to make big changes to their defence this summer, they have been making enquiries to sign 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 Inter’s asking price has dropped to just €50m (£43m) from around €80m (£69m).
Man United are also in the race for the Italian’s signature, but Arne Slot‘s side are now trying to hijack their rivals, and it is no surprise, given the level of some of his performances this season…
Indeed, there are signs the 26-year-old could be an upgrade on Konate, having outperformed the France international across a number of key statistics this term.
|
Average per 90 (league only) |
Alessandro Bastoni |
Ibrahima Konate |
|
Accurate passes |
64.0 |
57.0 |
|
Interceptions |
1.0 |
0.8 |
|
Tackles |
2.0 |
0.7 |
|
Assists |
4 |
0 |
Lauded as “world-class” by journalist Matteo Bonetti, the 41-time Italy international has also proven himself at the highest level, making 56 appearances in the Champions League, and playing in two finals with Inter.
Bonetti has the experience to be a success at Anfield, but Liverpool may need to qualify for the Champions League to ensure they win the race for his signature, amid rival interest from Man United and Premier League leaders Arsenal.