Liverpool have announced they have agreed a deal to sign Ibrahima Konate from RB Leipzig.
Konate has agreed a long-term contract to join Liverpool on 1 July, subject to international clearance and a successful work permit application.
“I’m really happy to be joining such a massive club like Liverpool," the 22-year-old defender told the club's official website.
“Right now, my focus is on the Under-21 European Championships with France, but after this competition I know I will be joining one of the best teams in the world and that gives me a great feeling."
Accord Convenu ✅
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) May 28, 2021
We are delighted to have reached an agreement for the transfer of @IbrahimaKonate_ from @DieRotenBullen 🔴
Konate has made 95 appearances and scored four goals across the last four seasons, playing eight times in the UEFA Champions League. In 2020/21 he made 81 tackles and won 33 aerial duels.
Manager Jurgen Klopp says the centre-back has the skills to give Liverpool an immediate boost next season.
“After the problems we had with injuries in the centre-half position last season, there’s no doubt it was clear it was an area of the team we needed to strengthen," Klopp added.
“In Ibrahima we are signing a player who will add to the quality we already have here. His physical attributes are very impressive; he is quick, he is very strong and he is dominant in the air. I am confident we are signing a player who can play for us right away."
Konate is set to become Liverpool's first signing ahead of the 2021/22 Premier League campaign, which is due to start on 14 August with fixtures announced on 16 June.