Liverpool are reportedly in advanced talks with a star who has African roots and is valued at R700 million, in what could be the Premier League club's first major transfer ahead of next season.
Manager Jurgen Klopp is understood to be keen on strengthening his squad, with the current campaign having been overshadowed by injuries to a number of his players.
As a consequence, the Reds are in the process of finalising a deal to bring in RB Leipzig defender Ibrahima Konate, The Athletic has reported.
Talks are said to be at an advanced stage and Liverpool want to close the deal as soon as possible, with the 21-year-old understood to have a €40 million (R700 million) buyout clause in his contract.
Although there are other interested clubs as well, it is believed the Reds have made significant progress in their attempts to sign the centre-back, who has represented France at U21 level but is of Malian descent.
Konate joined Leipzig on a free transfer from Sochaux in 2017, and has made 89 appearances for the Bundesliga side since.
He has UEFA Champions League experience and would be expected to challenge Liverpool's other centre-back options for an immediate place in Klopp's strongest starting XI.
