Far from done, nothing set in stone, but Liverpool’s move for RB Leipzig’s Ibrahima Konaté is nearing completion.
Liverpool are looking to resolve all their summer business early. With Euros happening it would be smart to conclude transactions before some players’ stock increases thanks to stellar performances for their respective countries.
Also, Jurgen Klopp will want to start the restoration job at Anfield long before the season kicks off. We all know the German loves his preparation and preseason is key to Klopp’s success – in actual fact, for any manager.
The current campaign really rocked the boat at Anfield. With no preseason, no preparation, and no proper transfer plan, the club who were supposed to defend their first English top-flight title after a 30-year wait, failed miserably to put up a valiant fight.
Building for next season’s Premier League run starts at the back for Liverpool with them continuously being named in a move for Ibrahima Konaté.
Some parts of the deal are said to be finalised
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Initially, when news first broke in March regarding the Reds and their interest in the Frenchman, it was reported that they have already completed half of the player’s medical.
The only aspect of the deal that was and is ongoing, is the negotiation for the fee. Leipzig knows what they want and will wait until they receive it.
The Reds know what they can afford. We all know that Michael Edwards is busy working his magic in the deal and trying to save every penny he possibly can, which seems to be the delay in the process.
Other reports were conflicting to those who believed a deal was close, suggesting it was far from complete and the two are way off from agreeing on a fee.
The Merseysiders want to tie done the French international to a five-year deal.
Liverpool are still working to reach an agreement with Ibrahima Konaté. He’s one of the ‘top targets’ in the list and #LFC will be offering a five-years contract. Not done or agreed, as of today. RB Leipzig will only sell Konaté if the full release clase will be paid. 🔴 #LFC
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) April 17, 2021
What is the delay in the Liverpool-Konaté deal?
While simply it is down to funds. Where to use the funds, how to use the funds, how many areas across the pitch do they need to distribute the funds in.
Liverpool, like all clubs worldwide, has lost out on multiple millions due to the global pandemic. They must all move around in the market with heavy restrictions and limitations.
So Liverpool’s usual business sense and how they spend a little money and expect the highest return becomes the best practice – and actual fact, it becomes the only practice.
So basically, the Reds will and must pay what RB Leipzig wants. That is the defender’s buyout clause of €40 million. Liverpool are trying to negotiate for a lower transfer fee for the player.
This could see the deal fall through altogether with Ibrahima Konaté wanted by a few of Europe’s elite. They will not fall short of possible suitors who are willing to pay his full buyout clause.