Liverpool looking at a Konate 2.0 with £25m transfer option

Liverpool are looking to sign Maxence Lacroix from VFL Wolfsburg ahead of the next season, who could be the next Ibrahim Konate for the Reds.

Even though the Reds spent massive amounts of money on midfield transfers in the summer, they still need reinforcements in the defensive area.

Liverpool targeting Maxence Lacroix

As Per Daly Mail, Liverpool have made a list of defenders to pair with Van Dijk ahead of the next season. The Merseysiders are looking at Maxence Lacroix as one of their options.

The 23-year-old has impressed in Germany with Wolfsburg. Moreover, previous reports suggest that a deal could be agreed for a fee of £25m, with his current deal set to expire in 2025.

The 6 foot 3 titan is also powerful and progressive. He evidences this by ranking among the top 20% of centre-backs across Europe’s top five leagues over the past year for successful take-ons and the top 12% for clearances per 90, as per FBref.

Konate, in comparison, ranks among the top 15% for successful take-ons and the top 7% for tackles per 90. Hence, it’s clear to see those robust Sochaux roots embedded in the respective skill sets.

Moreover, Lacroix has completed 87% of his passes, averaging five ball recoveries and 4.6 clearances per game and winning 60% of his duels.

Other suitors than the Frenchman

The Reds’ fans are all too familiar with Goncalo Inacio. The Portuguese international has been linked to Anfield throughout 2023. However, he is on the costlier side with a release clause of £52m.

Moreover, he only comes out on top in 48% of contested duels and could pose a problem in the PL. Although his passing skills are excellent, a more rounded style from someone like Lacroix would be fitting for the Reds.

Ultimately, the club has options, and Klopp will be judicious in identifying the player he wishes to sign.

Sai Akshay

I’m a football enthusiast and an avid writer and someone who lives by the Bill Shankly quote, on a day to day basis.