Ibrahima Konaté’s future at Liverpool remains uncertain as Real Madrid identify him as a target.
The France international has entered his final year of contract and has so far refused to sign an extension. His desire is reportedly to join Real Madrid, who are determined to sign him for free next summer.
Recent claims have talked about the possibility of Real Madrid considering a move for the Liverpool this summer.
On Tuesday, Mundo Deportivo reported the Reds are demanding €50m, while Los Blancos don’t want to offer more than €30m, if they decide to sign him in this window.
Marca spoke to FC Sochaux youth coach Éric Hély, who has also managed their first team between 2016 and 2017.
The Liverpool player is a product of the French club’s academy and was promoted to their first team by Hély. Marca says the 26-year-old initially started up front before settling in the heart of the defence.
Hély highlights the former RB Leipzig man’s qualities and backs him to leave the Premier League winners for Real Madrid.
“I would highlight his charisma and his simplicity, which make him a leader. He was very clear about that for a boy his age. He wanted to succeed and worked tirelessly, even on his own,” he said.
“If he did it at Liverpool, why not at Real Madrid? I’m sure if he gets into Xabi’s dressing room, he won’t talk much at first. He’ll listen and learn, and then he’ll establish himself in the group with his personality.
“I don’t see him as Varane. He’s more of a Desailly type. He gives off a lot of confidence and has a very good footwork. I’d say better than Rüdiger, who is undoubtedly an athlete, but I think Ibrahima is technically stronger.
“I’m sure he can succeed at Madrid and wherever he wants. I think he’d fit in very well with Xabi. He can play in a three-man defence, as he did at Leipzig, and in a four-man defence. He’s a kid who never caused any problems. I remember when he came from Paris to stay at our residence. And he was always there to help and make life easier. The other kids followed him because of his charisma.”
Real Madrid don’t seem to have made a firm decision on whether to sign Konaté in this window or wait until next summer to take him for free.