Liverpool has found a new 'Van Dijk', and he's of African origins

The French defender of Malian descent Ibrahima Konate is close to completing a move to Liverpool. The Reds have agreed personal terms with the RB Leipzig centre-back, who is set to move to Anfield in the summer on a five-year contract.

Konate, 21, has a release clause in his Leipzig contract worth around 4,5 billion KSh, with the two clubs in advanced talks over the terms of the payment.

The delayed game between Man Utd and Liverpool will be played on May 13

"It is really, really close. It is just a matter of time,” said journalist Fabrizio Romano on TalkSport on Wednesday morning when asked for the latest on Liverpool’s interest in the Frenchman.

"The agreement with the player is done. They want to sign the player. It is just a case of the clubs negotiating.

"The player wants to go. It is a five-year contract. In some weeks, it will be complete."

Liverpool coach Jurgen Klopp has moved to strengthen his defensive options for next season after suffering a number of injury setbacks this term, which has seen his side’s Premier League title defence implode.

The club signed Ozan Kabak and Ben Davies in January but have deployed midfielder Fabinho at the back on numerous occasions this season.

Konate has represented France at the youth level numerous times and has 94 appearances with Leipzig to his name since joining them from Sochaux in 2017.

He’s developed a good understanding with Dayot Upamecano at the back with Leipzig.