The gifted midfielder might be an ideal successor for Fabinho.
Liverpool have been heavily connected with a move for Kouadio ‘Manu’ Kone this summer, and a new update on the club’s pursuit of the player has surfaced as the summer transfer market starts.
What is the status of Liverpool’s pursuit of Kouadio ‘Manu’ Kone?
Liverpool have made an approach for Borussia Mönchengladbach midfielder Ignazio Genuardi, according to Foot Mercato writer Ignazio Genuardi.
On Tuesday, Genuardi said on Twitter: “Approached by Liverpool, the former Toulousain M. Koné also piques the interest of Chelsea and Newcastle.” Bleuet is under contract with Gladbach until June 2025 (+ one extra year as an option), and the Magpies are searching for two midfield reinforcements.”
Who would Kone replace in Liverpool’s lineup?
It is no secret that Jurgen Klopp and new sports director Jorg Schmadtke are looking for another midfielder to join Alexis MacAllister this summer, with the defensive midfield position being prioritized.
After strengthening the attacking presence in the center of the pitch with the purchase of Mac Allister, the signing of Kone might be the ideal chance to boost another vital midfield duty – defense screening.
Brazilian staple Fabinho has provided many years of high-quality service on Merseyside and has played a significant role in the multiple major trophies won throughout Klopp’s rule.
However, the defensive midfielder has battled to maintain his high standards on the play this season, becoming more of a burden than an aid in the center of the pitch, implying that any extra reinforcements in his position would be bad news for him.
Jamie Carragher, a former Liverpool defender turned Sky Sports commentator, unleashed a stinging assault on the midfield earlier this season, naming Fabinho as one of the key culprits: “We’ve spoken at times about Liverpool surrendering goals because of the high line. The main issue at Liverpool right now is the midfield. Fabinho has certainly lagged behind this season.”
When compared to the previous season in the top division (2021/22), the £180k-per-week ace has produced fewer interceptions (37 v 39), a far lower take-on success rate (46.7% v 77.3%), fewer ball recoveries (193 v 184), and a worse aerial duel success rate (64.2% v 58.8%).
When comparing Kone’s output with the Liverpool midfielder this season, it is clear that the Bundesliga sensation – hailed “monstrous” by Jacek Kulig – has outperformed him in many key defensive attributes including blocks (26 v 18), tackles and interceptions completed (106 v 102), take-on success (48.3% v 46.7%), dribblers tackled rate (51.1% v 38.7%) and ball recoveries (221 v 180), as per FBref.
Having said that, the signing of Kone, who has a rumored fee of €40 million (£34 million), would be a big coup for Klopp this summer, presenting the German coach with a young player who can not only supplant Fabinho but also improve on his defensive presence in the center of the pitch.
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