Dazzling praise for Klopp struggler from Liverpool-bound Konate resurfaces
New Liverpool signing Ibrahima Konate has previously revealed his admiration for two Anfield stars signed by Jurgen Klopp.
After several months of links, the Reds announced on Friday that they have reached an agreement to sign the RB Leizpig defender this summer. Manager Klopp hailed the Frenchman’s “massive potential” as a big reason for his excitement about the player. He also admitted that he has been following Konate for a long time.
The 22-year-old’s primary focus is on helping France progress at the Under-21 European Championships. However, he will then add another crucial option to Liverpool‘s back line after a horror show with injuries this season.
Liverpool did not get to witness Konate’s talents up close during their Champions League meetings with Leipzig; the centre-back remained on the bench in both legs of the last 16 clash.
However, Konate has knowledge of some of his new employers’ stars – namely midfielder Naby Keita. The pair spent two seasons at Leipzig before Keita moved to Anfield.
In an interview with Oh My Goal in December, Konate praised Keita and fellow ex-Leipzig team-mate Timo Werner when asked to name the two best players he has shared a dressing room with.
“Timo Werner and Naby Keita,” the centre-back said. “Naby Keita surprised me because of his size.
“He wasn’t tall, not muscly, but technically he was a step ahead, and even in passes and duels, he surprised me.”
Keita earned a reputation at Leipzig as an explosive midfielder, hence the excitement when he joined Liverpool.
However, he has endured a largely dismal Anfield tenure due to injury. As such, reports claim that he could leave this summer.
Konate also revealed his admiration for Reds defender Virgil van Dijk, who he will likely line up alongside next season.
Konate reveals Van Dijk admiration
Asked to pick his dream five-a-side team, he said: ” I won’t have a goalkeeper, I’ll put Van Dijk and Sergio Ramos at the back.
“In midfield I’ll have N’Golo Kante and up front I’ll put Kylian Mbappe and Marcus Rashford.
“Rashford’s deadly, he’s a deadly player. He knows why he’s there.
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“When he has a chance, it’s very rare for him not to put it in the back of the net.”
READ MORE: Forgotten Liverpool man hints at plans for next season amid future doubts
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