Liverpool couldn’t really be happier with Ibrahima Konate, according to one journalist. The Frenchman arrived in the summer.
Liverpool only made one signing in the summer – Ibrahima Konate. Given the disaster of a campaign preceding it, that was a massive risk. After all, you’re piling the pressure on a 22-year-old when he’s the only significant change.
The Reds fell from dominant Premier League champions to top-four strugglers within 12 months. Injuries decimated their defence, leaving them in disarray but they simply banked on returns and Konate to see them through.
That was controversial, of course. Yes, Liverpool needed more in defence but midfield and attack were also concerns. Konate, though, was the only deal, arriving for £36m.
Fortunately, Liverpool appear to believe they absolutely nailed the transfer.
“In defence, they’ve done fantastic business with Ibrahima Konate,” Fabrizio Romano told Anfield Watch.
“I’m told they’re super, super happy with his attitude, how professional he is and how he’s performing and adapting to a new league.”
Liverpool thrilled with Ibrahima Konate
We’ve certainly been impressed with Konate, who shone both at Old Trafford and San Siro this season. Fans, too, are pretty delighted with the signing.
And this, at the end of the day, is exactly the kind of transfer Liverpool should make. Konate is still very young, particularly for a defender, but ready to compete at the top level already. The club paid a premium for him – the second-most they’ve ever spent on a defender – but should get years and years out of the player.
So this is certainly one that went right. We just wish he wasn’t the only arrival – Liverpool are very capable of finding players like this.
The squad could use a Konate in midfield and attack, yet the same moves didn’t materialise over the summer. We can only hope the success here will inspire similar transfers in 2022.
Receive a digest of our best Liverpool content each week direct to your mailbox
