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Sources: Liverpool identify Ibrahima Konate replacement as defender edges closer to exit

Konstantinos Koulierakis is emerging as one of Europe’s most sought-after young defenders, with multiple top clubs preparing to test Wolfsburg’s resolve in the January transfer window.

The 21-year-old Greek centre-back has been one of the Bundesliga’s breakout stars this season, earning widespread admiration.

Since arriving from PAOK Thessaloniki, Koulierakis has quickly established himself as a key figure.

His ability to read the game, combined with his aerial strength and left-footed balance, has made him an impressive performer in Germany’s top flight, and now, the European elite are taking notice.

The young defender has made 11 appearances for the Bundesliga side this season.

Liverpool are closely monitoring Konstantinos Koulierakis

Among the keenest admirers are Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur, sources close to the agents industry have informed CaughtOffside.

Arne Slot views Koulierakis as a potential long-term replacement for Ibrahima Konaté, whose future at Anfield remains uncertain amid contract speculation.

The French defender is reportedly in talks to leave Liverpool next year and make a move to Bayern Munich.

Liverpool scouts have been tracking Koulierakis’ progress for several months, impressed by his defensive positioning and progressive passing.

Tottenham, meanwhile, have also added the Greek international to their defensive shortlist.

With Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven their current first-choice pairing, Thomas Frank is keen to add more depth and competition.

Reds face competition from Tottenham

Wolfsburg defender Konstantinos Koulierakis
Liverpool have identified Konstantinos Koulierakis as their defensive transfer target. (Photo by Stuart Franklin/Getty Images)

Reports suggest Spurs are actively scouting three targets, Jarrad Branthwaite, Eric García, and Koulierakis, as part of their long-term recruitment strategy.

In Italy, both Inter Milan and Juventus are keeping close tabs on the player’s situation.

Inter are preparing for life beyond Francesco Acerbi and Stefan de Vrij, both in the twilight of their careers, while Juventus are seeking a left-footed partner for Bremer to strengthen their backline.

For now, Wolfsburg are reluctant to sell, especially midway through the season. However, insiders suggest that a bid in the region of €35-40 million could tempt the German club into negotiations.

With the player’s stock continuing to rise and several clubs lining up to make an approach, Wolfsburg may find it difficult to resist an offer of that magnitude.

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The post Sources: Liverpool identify Ibrahima Konate replacement as defender edges closer to exit appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Liverpool and Tottenham plotting move for 21-year-old ace “standing out” in the Bundesliga

Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur are interested in signing the Wolfsburg defender Konstantinos Koulierakis. 

The 21-year-old central defender has done quite well for the German club, and he has attracted the attention of top teams. He could prove to be an excellent long-term acquisition for the two Premier League clubs.

Liverpool and Spurs need Konstantinos Koulierakis

Liverpool need a quality replacement for Ibrahima Konaté, who has not signed an extension with them. He will leave the club on a free transfer at the end of the season. They have been keeping tabs on Koulierakis for months.

On the other hand, Tottenham could certainly use more depth in the defensive unit.

Graeme Bailey told TBR Football: “Koulierakis is attracting a lot of attention across Europe, composed and left-sided – left-footed defenders do tend to carry a bit more of a premium and he is standing out at the moment.”

Where will Koulierakis end up?

Wolfsburg defender Konstantinos Koulierakis
Liverpool have identified Konstantinos Koulierakis as their defensive transfer target. (Photo by Stuart Franklin/Getty Images)

It will be interesting to see which of the two clubs can get the deal done. The player is highly rated, and there is likely to be more clubs monitoring his progress. The German outfit will certainly hope that there is a bidding war in the summer. Ideally, they would look to keep the player at the club for the long term, but they will be hoping to sell him to the highest bidder if it comes to that.

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The 21-year-old central defender is still quite young, and he will only improve with coaching and experience. He could develop into a top-class Premier League defender with the right guidance. Liverpool and Tottenham have done well to groom young players, and they could play a key role in his growth.

If either of the two English clubs managed to get the deal done for a reasonable amount of money, it could prove to be a shrewd investment for the future.

The post Liverpool and Tottenham plotting move for 21-year-old ace “standing out” in the Bundesliga appeared first on CaughtOffside.

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