Who is Manchester United target Ibrahima Konate?

Despite the transfer market being impacted by the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, RB Leipzig find themselves in a position where they will be fighting to keep hold of many of their star men.

While Dayot Upamecano and Timo Werner are the obvious targets for high-profile clubs, Ibrahima Konate has also been tipped to move to a bigger team during the next window.

Although the Frenchman has spent much of the season on the sidelines through injury, Manchester United are said to be keen on signing the 20-year-old.

With that in mind, Sports Mole takes a closer look at the prospect in an attempt to predict what United would be getting for their money.

Where does he play?

Although many players in the modern-day era can be deployed in a number of roles, Konate is regarded as a specialist centre-back.

However, that should be viewed as a strength rather than a weakness, especially by United supporters. They are well stocked for options at full-back, while Konate would act as a like-for-like replacement for out-of-favour Phil Jones.

Background

While Konate has been at Leipzig for almost three years, he spent time in the first-team setup at French side Sochaux before penning a long-term deal with the Bundesliga side.

As a 17-year-old, Konate made 13 appearances in Ligue 2, having previously made nine outings for the club's second-string outfit.

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How has he performed this season?

Before his injury in October, Konate made seven appearances in the Bundesliga and Champions League, helping his team to five wins during the early part of the season.

Konate was also part of the backline which began Leipzig's 1-1 draw at home to Bayern Munich in September.

International experience?

His rapid transition from the youth ranks to the professional game has led to Konate being a regular for France in a number of age groups.

Between Under-16 and Under-21 level, Konate has earned 30 caps, including nine in the latter age group.

Is he likely to feature in the starting lineup?

Much would depend on Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's chosen formation.

While Konate is unlikely to dislodge Victor Lindelof or Harry Maguire in a four-man defence, he could feature alongside the pair in a back three.