Liverpool have now burst into the race for a “phenomenal” defender, with Ibrahima Konate’s future at Anfield still up in the air.
Reds keen on new centre-back amid Konate uncertainty
Virgil van Dijk has made it clear he wants his centre-back partner to remain at Anfield beyond the end of the season, saying: “Obviously I want him (Konate) to stay. He’s an important figure on the pitch. That’s what everyone sees but off the pitch as well, he’s one of the leaders.
“He’s outstanding and in my eyes, a world-class centre back. I can do only so much but it’s in the club’s hands, together with his agents and himself so let’s see what comes out of it but I have no influence otherwise on that.”
However, the Frenchman’s future is still in doubt, given that he is yet to sign a new contract, with his current deal set to expire in the summer, and the Reds have been scouring the market for potential replacements.
Earlier this week, Samson Baidoo was named as a target, with the Merseysiders now leading the race for the RC Lens defender’s signature, but he is not the only centre-back they have their eye on.
According to a report from Gazzetta dello Sport (via Sport Witness), Liverpool have now burst into the race to sign Juventus defender Pierre Kalulu, alongside Manchester United, while Aston Villa are also eyeing a move for the centre-back.
The news that Arne Slot’s side and the Red Devils are keen on Kalulu could be a blow to Villa’s chances of winning the race, considering playing for two of the biggest clubs in England is always going to be an attractive proposition.
Juventus may be willing to cash-in on the 25-year-old this summer, should the right offer present itself, and he could be a solid addition to Slot’s backline…
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Kalulu could be “phenomenal” Konate replacement
Lauded as “phenomenal” by scout Jacek Kulig, the one-time France international, who is represented by the same agent as Konate, has been an important player for Juventus in the Serie A this season, showcasing his ability going forward by amassing two goals and four assists in 26 outings.
The Juventus star has created nine big chances in the Serie A, the second-highest number in the squad, and he is solid defensively too, averaging 1.7 tackles per 90, which ranks him in fourth place.
Kulig isn’t alone in his admiration of Kalulu either, with journalist Matteo Bonetti praising his performance in a 2-2 draw against Lazio last month.
Liverpool’s number one priority should be to keep hold of Konate, given that the 26-year-old is already proven over a number of years in the Premier League, but his compatriot could be an excellent replacement.
