LIVERPOOL are close to capturing RB Leipzig’s giant centre-back Ibrahima Konate, reports say.
Manchester United, Chelsea and Real Madrid have also been linked with the Frenchman, 21.
But German outlets suggest the Reds are in the “final stages” of completing a deal.
And it’s claimed Liverpool could land the Under-21 star for just £28million, despite his initial £33m valuation.
Anfield boss Jurgen Klopp is keen for top-class defensive reinforcements, following long-term injuries to Virgil van Dijk, Joe Gomez and Joel Matip.
Turkey star Ozan Kabak has yet to settle since his loan arrival from Schalke i February.
And fellow transfer window recruit Ben Davies, from Preston, is still waiting for his debut.
Rookies Nat Phillips and Rhys Williams have played far more often than expected this season.
Klopp has also regularly used midfielders Jordan Henderson and Fabinho at centre-back.
Just two months ago Leipzig sporting director Markus Krosche played down 6ft 4in Konate’s chances of joining Liverpool.
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Krosche said then: “I think that this is not an option for Ibu.
“He has a long contract with us and he knows what we mean to him and what he means to us.
‘He was unlucky last year as he had a long-term injury but this year he is developing well and he is an extremely important player that has a lot of potential.”
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Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
