Real Madrid are considering a move for Liverpool star Ibrahima Konate, according to reports.
The France international has recently returned to action for the Reds after helping France to the World Cup final, and started Monday's 3-1 defeat to Brentford.
But whilst it wasn't the best night for the Frenchman, or Liverpool's defence as a whole, Konate has consistently impressed on the pitch since making the move from RB Leipzig in the summer of 2021.
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The young centre-back had to be patient to earn a regular spot in the side, but was a key part of the Reds' run to the Champions League final, where they lost to Real. However, injury has restricted him to five appearances in all competitions this term.
He was the subject of huge praise in April from Reds legend Phil Thompson, who told Off The Ball: "Konate is looking like an absolute dream. He's a wonderful player."
A new report, however, may concern Reds fans over his future at the club.
Real Madrid interested in Liverpool star Konate
According to French outlet Mediafoot, Real Madrid are preparing to launch a bid for the 23-year-old to join in the summer as boss Carlo Ancelotti looks to bolster his defensive options.
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They say that Ancelotti is an 'exceptional fan' of the defender, due to his profile, physicality and technical ability.
It is also added that the Italian wants to add to his young Real team, which already consists of the likes of Vinicius Junior, Eduardo Camavinga, Rodrygo and Aurelien Tchouameni. All four players are aged 23 or under.
Los Blancos currently have a number of options in central defence, with David Alaba, Eder Militao and Antonio Rudiger competing for two positions.
Nacho Fernandez and Jesus Vallejo are also on Real's books, but both players have been linked with moves away.
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But any potential departure will surely be resisted by Liverpool, who paid £32 million for Konate as a future star of the defence.
And any Reds rebuild would likely feature Konate as a key part of the defence, meaning it may take an eye-watering bid from Los Blancos to even bring Liverpool to the negotiating table.
Featured Image Credit: AlamyTopics: Liverpool, Real Madrid, Premier League, Transfers, Carlo Ancelotti