Arsenal in the battle to sign 21-year-old French centre-back

RB Leipzig centre-back Ibrahima Konate has been linked with a move to the London giants this summer, amid talk of a few defensive departures ahead of next campaign. Arsenal are said to be one of several teams interested in signing U21 France international this summer but face heavy competition from several clubs around Europe.

Konate, who started his career at French club Sochaux, is regarded as one of the most talented centre-backs in Europe. Ibrahima has played 15 games in all tournaments for the Red Bulls so far this campaign and has struggled for game time in recent weeks, mostly due to injury issues, with his last start coming in mid-December.

The 21-year-old centre-back’s physical attributes and strength have seemingly caught the eye of big clubs across Europe, Barcelona and Real Madrid included. Their involvement with the French centre-back comes as added competition for Man United. They also face serious competition from Chelsea for the centre-back.

And Gunners are also linked with a move for the defender, who joined Leipzig from Sochaux all the way back in 2017. But Leipzig would want good money for the player considering they are already set to lose a starting defender in the summer. Dayot Upamecano has agreed on a deal to join Bayern Munich once this campaign ends.

The Red Devils are reported to be looking for a long-term defensive partner for Harry Maguire in the heart of their defence. And Ibrahima, who is just 21, could be a great signing in that regard. However, Chelsea seem to pose the most serious threat to Man United when it comes to signing the defender.