Liverpool may have next Virgil van Dijk in their ranks after ‘big’ reveal – pundit
Paul Robinson has claimed Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate could “be as good” as Virgil van Dijk in the future.
However, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former Spurs and England goalkeeper said it will be “very, very difficult” for Konate to surpass his Netherlands international teammate.
Konate established himself in Jurgen Klopp’s side by the end of the 2021-22 campaign and started the Champions League final in Paris.
Speaking to club media (16 July), the centre-half said last season was “a big dream” and vowed to improve upon his performances.
The France international added that he has learned a lot from Virgil van Dijk, whom he hopes to be better than in years to come.
When asked by Football Insider if Konate was capable of becoming one of the world’s best, Robinson said: “Konate settled very quickly last season.
“Van Dijk is the best in the world though. It will be very, very difficult to be better than him.
“He has definitely got the qualities, from what I’ve seen, to get up there.
“There is more to come from Konate as a player and a defender. To aspire to be better than Virgil van Dijk is a great thing.
“From what I have seen of Konate he is already a top defender. Next season he will be more established, confident and stronger because he will have that season under his belt.
“He certainly has the qualities to be as good as Van Dijk but it’s a big ask.”
In other news, a finance guru has claimed Liverpool are ‘hot on the heels’ of Real Madrid as ‘enormous’ deal is agreed.