Chelsea have made an enquiry for Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate following confirmation that the French international will leave Anfield this month.
Liverpool announced on Sunday that Konate will depart the club when his contract expires at the end of June after both sides failed to reach an agreement over a new deal.
The 27-year-old leaves Liverpool after making 183 appearances in all competitions and winning the Premier League, FA Cup, and two League Cups during his time at Anfield.
Konate also released a statement after the announcement and admitted he felt sad that he could not properly say goodbye to Liverpool supporters during the final home game against Brentford.
According to The Athletic, Chelsea have now made an enquiry regarding the defender’s situation ahead of the summer transfer window.
However, the Blues are not alone in the race for the France international. Real Madrid continue monitoring Konate, while clubs from Saudi Arabia are also interested in signing the defender.
Paris Saint-Germain are also tracking the situation closely. PSG view Konate as a possible long-term replacement for Marquinhos, who turned 32 last month.
The French connection could also play a role if PSG decide to intensify their interest.
For now, Konate’s immediate focus remains on the World Cup after linking up with Didier Deschamps’ France squad.
The defender faces competition from William Saliba, Dayot Upamecano, and Maxence Lacroix for a starting place in the national team.
Meanwhile, doubts have reportedly emerged regarding Saliba’s fitness after the Arsenal defender aggravated a back injury during the Champions League final.
That situation could potentially improve Konate’s chances of securing a starting role for France during the tournament.
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