Chelsea have reportedly decided not to make an offer for departing Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate, despite previously hinting that he could join the race to sign the France international.
According to TEAMtalk, the Blues are considering the situation but have no plans to submit a proposal.
Konate’s agent has instead been in talks with Real Madrid and Bayern Munich, with both European giants now seen as more realistic destinations for the 27-year-old centre-back.
Konate is set to leave Liverpool when his contract expires this summer after the two sides were unable to agree terms on a renewal.
Liverpool have decided not to sign Konate to a new contract.
Negotiations had been going on for a long time, but Liverpool ultimately decided not to press ahead with what was believed to be an expensive extension.
The Guardian reports that Konate is likely to leave Anfield after failing to reach a new deal, ending his five-year spell at the club.
In theory it would have been an interesting opportunity for Chelsea. A proven Premier League defender who is acquired on a free transfer usually attracts attention, especially if he is only 27 years old.
But “free” transfers are rarely actually cheaper. Konate would command a hefty salary, signing bonus and agent’s fee, but Chelsea appear to have decided it was not worth pursuing the full package.
That might be wise. Chelsea already have a young defense, but they need to carefully manage the balance of the squad.
Adding another well-paid centre-back could cause more problems than it solves, especially after another difficult league season.
Chelsea made the right decision with Konate
Real Madrid and Bayern Munich are more obvious. Both clubs are always wary of acquiring elite-level players for free.
Bayern are reportedly reconsidering their interest, but what move they make could depend on their own defensive exits.
Real Madrid have also been linked, with Konate weighing his options after deciding to leave Liverpool.
Chelsea are probably making the right decision by withdrawing. Konate is a very good defender when healthy and focused, but he is not without risk.
His injury record, wage demands, and overall package size make this more complicated than it seems at first glance.
Real Madrid or Bayern would feel like a natural next step for Konate. Both clubs can offer Champions League football, great status and the chance to compete for major trophies right away.
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