Manchester United are showing interest in RB Leipzig centre-back Ibrahima Konate, The Independent report.
Potentially, he could become a significant signing for United if a deal can be done.
Konate is a gifted defender who has a chance to be one of the best of his generation.
Two summers ago we wrote a move for Konate could be preferable to signing Harry Maguire, based on the Frenchman’s age and potential, combined with his ability, and the latter’s £80 million price tag
As it may happen, United may end up with both players.
Konate can go all the way to the top
While we like what Maguire has brought to United, Konate has a chance to develop into an even better defender. He is still only 21-years-old.
Konate is under contract until 2023. Leipzig expect to lose Dayot Upamecano due to his release clause, but his replacement has already been signed, with Josko Gvardiol signed and then loaned out for the season.
The one drawback has been fitness. An injury interrupted season for Konate saw him make only eight appearances, compared to 43 matches played the year before. This season he has played just six league games after sustaining an ankle injury in December.
At just 21, there may not be any harm in Konate having an extended rest, although the other side of the coin is that United have to ensure the club is not signing a player with any long term issues.
If United are satisfied, Leipzig may be willing to let Konate go for a reasonable fee. Transfermarkt note his value at £36 million. In a deflated market, that sounds about right.
With several centre-back options at United already, Konate would not be needed to be rushed into action.
Konate would be joining as a depth option, a player who could become a first team regular in a couple of years.
Maguire is 27 and Konate could become his successor. That is the role he should have in mind if he signed, giving United an extra option along with Axel Tuanzebe and Teden Mengi, solidifying a core of talented centre-backs for the future.
Special player
In a full campaign in 2018/19, Konate led Leipzig in shots blocked, duels won and interceptions, bettering Upamecano.
This season Konate averages three aerial duels won per game, more than Upamecano’s 2.4.
Bundesliga.com compare Konate in style to Virgil van Dijk, noting his fast pace, and physical ability to ‘bully’ attackers.
Former coach Ralf Rangnick tipped him to reach the top and play for either Real Madrid or Barcelona in the future.
It is sensible for United to enquire and find out Konate’s situation. If he keeps on developing his game and stays injury free, he could eventually become a better defender than Harry Maguire is now, irrespective of fee.
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