Liverpool's Alisson and Ibrahima Konate. (REUTERS/Phil Noble)
Chelsea have been one of the busiest Premier League teams this summer, perhaps second only to Sunderland in the sheer volume of high-profile signings.
The Blues have already bolstered their squad with exciting additions like Liam Delap, Joao Pedro, Jamies Gittens, Estevão Willian, Dario Essugo, and Jorrel Hato — a clear statement of intent to strengthen in all areas.
And more reinforcements appear to be on the horizon, with attacking talents like Xavi Simons and Alejandro Garnacho seemingly bound for Stamford Bridge, packing an almost unfair amount of firepower up front.
But Chelsea’s summer shopping spree isn’t stopping there. The Blues are now reportedly targeting even more reinforcements at the back.
Chelsea Bid for Konaté
According to Spanish outlet Defensa Central, Chelsea have made a surprise move to secure Liverpool’s French international defender Ibrahima Konaté, with a £43 million bid having recently been submitted for the 26-year-old.
This reported pursuit of Konaté, who has been described as “outstanding” by New York Times journalist Rory Smith, comes in the wake of a serious injury to Levi Colwill.
The long-term absence of Colwill — a key player in Enzo Maresca’s plans — has left a sizeable hole in Chelsea’s defence.
At the same time, Liverpool appear ready to bring in Crystal Palace’s star defender Marc Guehi. The England international, who is in the final year of his contract, has attracted bids from Newcastle and Tottenham, both rejected by Palace so far. The Eagles have now conceded, however, that if the right bid comes in, Guehi can leave Selhurst Park.
If Liverpool secure Guehi’s signature, it could threaten Konaté’s playing time at Anfield, making a summer exit more likely.
Defensa Central claims Liverpool have rejected Chelsea’s initial offer, hoping Konaté will commit to an extension on his current deal, which expires next summer.
However, with Liverpool themselves urgently needing defensive reinforcements, the report suggests Chelsea are preparing to come back with an improved bid — one that could prove irresistible.
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