Liverpool are now keen on signing an "insane" defender, who could be brought in as a replacement for Ibrahima Konate.

Iraola needs new centre-back with Konate set to join Real Madrid

After just over five years, Konate's time at Anfield is set to come to an end when his contract expires this summer, and the defender has expressed his sadness about the manner in which he left, saying: "I am deeply saddened that I didn't get the chance to say goodbye to all of you at the last game. At that moment, I didn't know it would be my final time wearing this shirt in front of you.

"Anfield is truly a special place, and playing in front of you was something I never took for granted. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for everything. I love you all and will carry Liverpool with me wherever I go. This isn't an easy goodbye, but it's time for a new challenge and a new chapter."

Fabrizio Romano has already revealed the Frenchman's next destination, stating he is set to reunite with former teammate Trent Alexander-Arnold at the Santiago Bernabeu.

With Florentino Perez winning the Real Madrid elections, it appears as though the deal is set to go through, and the Reds will need to bring in a new partner for Virgil van Dijk.

Iraola compiles shortlist of centre-back targets

According to a report from Caught Offside, new manager Andoni Iraola has already compiled a shortlist of targets at centre-back, and Sporting CP star Goncalo Inacio is among his targets, as Liverpool want to bring in a left-footed option.

The report states the Reds need a centre-back who is comfortable with the ball at his feet, which means Inacio could be the ideal signing, with scout Antonio Mango describing him as "insane" in possession.

However, the Portuguese defender is not the only option, with three other centre-backs also making it onto the shortlist.

Not only did the 24-year-old contribute to Sporting conceding just 24 Liga Portugal goals last season, the second fewest of any side, but he also posed a threat on the front foot, chipping in with two goals and three assists in 29 appearances.

Inacio, who is set to take part in the World Cup with Portugal, has started to gain experience at the top level, making 31 Champions League appearances, and he could now be ready to make the move to Anfield.

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