Al-Ittihad set sights on Liverpool defender Konaté

Al-Ittihad have identified Liverpool centre-back Ibrahima Konaté (27) as a summer target. The France international’s contract at Anfield expires next month. Konaté has made 142 appearances for Liverpool since joining from RB Leipzig in January 2021. He has scored 12 goals and provided three assists during his time at Anfield. Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp confirmed Konaté’s future is under review, stating the club is working on a solution. Klopp added the defender remains fully focused on current fixtures. Konaté’s agent, Karim Djaziri, has held exploratory talks with Al-Ittihad. The Saudi club is prepared to meet Liverpool’s valuation amid strong interest in the defender. Al-Ittihad’s sporting director, Nassif Hawwa, has prioritised defensive reinforcements ahead of the transfer window. The club is also monitoring other Premier League defenders. Konaté could finalise a move to Al-Ittihad before the end of the Premier League season. Liverpool face Manchester City in their next league fixture.