Jurgen Klopp rejected Ozan Kabak move to complete Konate deal

Transfer News: Jurgen Klopp vetoed Ozan Kabak move as Ibrahima Konate was pursued by Liverpool

According to a report by German publication BILD via Sport Witness (h/t Liverpool Echo), Schalke hoped Liverpool would opt to buy Ozan Kabak on a permanent transfer but Jurgen Klopp ‘cancelled it’.

Liverpool loaned the defender in for 6 months in the January transfer window to cover for their injured centre-backs. The Turkish youngster was signed alongside Ben Davies, but the latter did not appear even once.

It was Kabak who impressed during his spell before succumbing to an injury that prematurely ended his campaign. And Schalke hoped that his performances were good enough to make Liverpool purchase the 21-year-old in the summer.

Jurgen Klopp opted not to sign Schalke man, Ozan Kabak, in a permanent transfer for Ibrahima Konate. (GETTY Images)

However, Klopp did not go for it. His loan deal had an option to trigger a permanent move, but the Reds opted against it and bought Ibrahima Konate from RB Leipzig instead. (h/t Liverpool Echo)

No Kabak

The report goes on to mention that Kabak can feature in the Premier League again. Newcastle United and Leicester City are interested in the 20-year-old centre-back.

The former Fenerbahce man failed to feature for Turkey in their disastrous Euros campaign which saw them get eliminated without a single point. And in hindsight, Liverpool may have taken the right call.

Liverpool have reportedly completed the signing of Ibrahima Konate from RB Leipzig after triggering his release clause. — Liverpool have completed the signing of Ibrahima Konate from RB Leipzig. (GETTY Images)

With the senior centre-backs returning from injury, signing both Kabak and Konate would have been a luxurious move they could do without. Instead, they should focus on strengthening elsewhere.

Midfield and attack are two regions where fans would think that the club could do with a new player. Georginio Wijnaldum has agreed to join Paris Saint-Germain for next season, and that leaves a big hole in the team.

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So instead of looking at any more defenders, it’s best if the club eye some midfielders that can replicate the consistency and fitness levels provided by the departing Dutchman.