The race to sign Ibrahima Konate is reaching a frantic boiling point, and Chelsea must move fast to beat rivals to the punch before the defender flies out for the World Cup.
Ibrahima Konate is officially set to leave Anfield on a free transfer this summer after contract extension negotiations hit a dead end.
This has put Chelsea on high alert. The Blues are aggressively entering the transfer market for a proven centre-back to permanently fix their fragile backline, which sorely missed physical dominance throughout the season.
During his stint managing Real Madrid, Xabi Alonso was highly keen on bringing Ibrahima Konaté to the Santiago Bernabeu, so there’s every chance that this interest may be driven by him.
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Ibrahima Konate decision is imminent
L’Equipe claims that Konate will make a decision about his future before flying to the United States for the World Cup with France.
However, it won’t be easy for the Blues, as Real Madrid and Bayern Munich are also in the frame.
During his stint managing Real Madrid, Xabi Alonso was highly keen on bringing Ibrahima Konate to the Santiago Bernabeu, so he may be driving the interest.
But, the one thing that could let them down is that lack of European football, especially as Bayern and Real Madrid can both offer Champions League.
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Ibrahima Konate comes with big wages
While securing Ibrahima Konate on a free transfer is an enticing prospect, his massive wage demands could prove to be a major stumbling block for Chelsea.
The defender’s contract breakdown at Anfield was largely fueled by his desire for a bumper pay rise, with reports suggesting his camp is holding out for a hefty package in the region of £250,000 per week.
Chelsea’s recruitment team are working tirelessly to completely restructure and lower the club’s wage bill, so they will no doubt be wary of breaking their strict financial cap and upsetting the squad’s harmony.
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