Liverpool have now burst into the race for a “phenomenal” defender, with Ibrahima Konate’s future at Anfield nonetheless up within the air.
Reds eager on new centre-back amid Konate uncertainty
Virgil van Dijk has made it clear he needs his centre-back accomplice to stay at Anfield past the top of the season, saying: “Clearly I need him (Konate) to remain. He is an necessary determine on the pitch. That is what everybody sees however off the pitch as effectively, he is one of many leaders.
“He is excellent and in my eyes, a world-class centre again. I can do solely a lot nevertheless it’s within the membership’s palms, collectively together with his brokers and himself so let’s examine what comes out of it however I’ve no affect in any other case on that.”
Nevertheless, the Frenchman’s future remains to be doubtful, given that he’s but to signal a brand new contract, together with his present deal set to run out in the summertime, and the Reds have been scouring the marketplace for potential replacements.
Earlier this week, Samson Baidoo was named as a goal, with the Merseysiders now main the race for the RC Lens defender’s signature, however he’s not the one centre-back they’ve their eye on.
In keeping with a report from Gazzetta dello Sport (by way of Sport Witness), Liverpool have now burst into the race to signal Juventus defender Pierre Kalulu, alongside Manchester United, whereas Aston Villa are additionally eyeing a transfer for the centre-back.
The information that Arne Slot‘s aspect and the Pink Devils are eager on Kalulu may very well be a blow to Villa’s possibilities of profitable the race, contemplating taking part in for two of the most important golf equipment in England is all the time going to be a beautiful proposition.
Juventus could also be keen to cash-in on the 25-year-old this summer season, ought to the precise supply current itself, and he may very well be a strong addition to Slot’s backline…
The Reds are eyeing a brand new central midfielder.
Kalulu may very well be “phenomenal” Konate substitute
Lauded as “phenomenal” by scout Jacek Kulig, the one-time France worldwide, who’s represented by the identical agent as Konate, has been an necessary participant for Juventus within the Serie A this season, showcasing his capacity going ahead by amassing two targets and 4 assists in 26 outings.
The Juventus star has created 9 massive probabilities within the Serie A, the second-highest quantity within the squad, and he’s strong defensively too, averaging 1.7 tackles per 90, which ranks him in fourth place.
Kulig is not alone in his admiration of Kalulu both, with journalist Matteo Bonetti praising his efficiency in a 2-2 draw towards Lazio final month.
Liverpool’s primary precedence needs to be to maintain maintain of Konate, on condition that the 26-year-old is already confirmed over various years within the Premier League, however his compatriot may very well be a wonderful substitute.