Liverpool have now emerged as frontrunners in the race to sign a "monstrous" defender, moving ahead of Premier League rivals Crystal Palace.
Reds eyeing new centre-back despite Konate's improved form
Ibrahima Konate has received praise for his improved form in recent weeks, with centre-back partner Virgil van Dijk saying after the 3-1 victory against Sunderland:"Ibou was outstanding, Macca in front. Everyone was putting a shift in. I’m proud of the guys as they worked so hard."
The Frenchman kept his place in the side for the following two Premier League games, helping the Reds keep clean sheets in the 3-0 victory against Brighton and 1-0 triumph over Nottingham Forest, before going on to win six of the eight duels he contested against West Ham United.
With the 26-year-old putting in some improved performances as of late, talks about a new contract have continued behind the scenes, and there are signs he's willing to extend his stay at Anfield.
However, Liverpool remain keen on bringing in another centre-back, according to a report from Sports Boom, which states they have emerged as frontrunners in the race for RC Lens defender Samson Baidoo, alongside Premier League rivals Manchester City.
Lens are expected to hold out for €45m - €55m (£39m - £48m) for the centre-back, amid widespread interest, with Borussia Dortmund and Inter Milan also being named as potential suitors.
RC Lens' Samson Baidoo in action with Angers SCO's Sidiki Cherif
Baidoo wants to make the step-up to a bigger club in the summer transfer window, which means a transfer is '80% likely', despite the French side's reluctance to sanction a departure.
"Monstrous" Baidoo could be ready to make step up
News that Liverpool and Man City are leading the race is a blow for Crystal Palace, considering they have identified the 20-year-old as a replacement for Marc Guehi, but there are indications he could be ready to join one of the Premier League's bigger clubs.
Journalist Andres Onrubia Ramos has been left very impressed by the youngster's performances in Ligue 1 this season, describing them as "monstrous", and he was one of Lens' most important players prior to a recent hamstring injury, making 18 league appearances.
Inter Milan's Alessandro Bastoni shakes hands with referee Alejandro Hernandez Related
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The race is heating up...
The Austrian has averaged 1.2 blocks per 90 in Ligue 1, the highest of any Lens player, and he is comfortable in possession, as evidenced by the fact he's averaging 48 accurate passes per 90, the third-highest amount in the squad.
Baidoo has earned a move to a top club, but Liverpool's number one priority should be to tie Konate down to a new contract, with the France international already proven in the Premier League.