Liverpool are set to complete the signing of Ibrahima Konate in the next few days. The agreement between the former Premier League champions and the French centre-back has been in place since early this year. However, the lack of progress surrounding the deal made fans doubt whether it was actually done.
However, according to renowned Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano, the transfer will be completed very soon now that the season has ended. The Merseyside club will not negotiate a lower price for Konate, and will pay the €35 million release clause for the player.
The contract agreed between the two parties is till 2026, and he will be competing with Joe Gomez and Virgil Van Dijk for a spot in the starting lineup. Among the other choices for the position of centre-back are Nat Phillips, and Joel Matip. The squad had to endure an injury plagued 20/21, and JĂ¼rgen Klopp will be hoping for a safer year next time.
Ozan Kabak will return to Schalke now that the season is over. Liverpool have decided to not make his loan deal permanent. However, the club will have to sell him since they were relegated to the second tier this season. Not only is Kabak not willing to play in the second division, but Schalke need the money.
Konate could be a great option for rotation, and also force the defenders to step up their game as the competition for playing time hots up.