Chelsea are reportedly ready to make a move for Ibrahima Konate, as the defender prepares to depart Liverpool this summer.
Konate will leave Liverpool when his contract expires next month, having failed to agree a new deal with the club.
French publication L’Equipe reports that Chelsea are among several clubs interested in the French international centre-back.
Xabi Alonso’s side intends to try their luck in the race to sign Konate, according to the same report.
Chelsea are not alone in their pursuit, with Real Madrid and Bayern Munich also mentioned as possible destinations for the defender.
Konate had previously signalled his desire to remain at Liverpool, speaking after a 2-1 win against Everton at Hill Dickinson Stadium last month.
“For sure there is a big chance I’m here next season. This is what I always wanted,” he said at the time.
“To be fair, there are many things people have said, but for a long time we have spoken with the club and we are [now] close to an agreement. I think everyone wished for that for as long as possible but we are in a good way.”
His departure adds further complications for Liverpool, who have already said farewell to senior players Mohamed Salah and Andy Robertson this summer.
Alonso, who signed a four-year contract earlier this month, is set to officially begin his role at Chelsea on July 1.
Chelsea’s summer planning has been complicated by their failure to qualify for the Conference League after a 2-1 defeat to Sunderland on the final day of the season.
However, Wayne Rooney believes the absence of European football could ultimately work in Chelsea’s favour heading into next season.
“I think they’ll be a real threat next season,” Rooney said on the Wayne Rooney Podcast.
“Obviously having one game a week, and then with Alonso coming in, I think it’s exciting for the Premier League because I think he’s got the potential to be a top manager.”
Rooney also suggested the situation gives Alonso valuable time to bed in at the club and implement his ideas ahead of a demanding campaign.
“It gives him a period of time to feel his way into the club and get his ideas across. So I think it will benefit the football club.”
