Former Liverpool defender Jason McAteer has urged his former club to sign Aston Villa centre-back Ezri Konsa, describing him as the perfect replacement for the departing Virgil van Dijk. Konsa's stock has risen significantly after playing a key role in England's run to the World Cup semi-finals, where he also scored in the 6-4 bronze play-off victory against France.
Liverpool's defensive need
Liverpool are assessing their centre-back options following Ibrahima Konate's free transfer to Real Madrid last month. The Reds are keen to strengthen their defence, with skipper Virgil van Dijk facing increasing pressure. Konsa, 28, lifted the Europa League trophy with Aston Villa last season and is reportedly attracting interest from several clubs, including Champions League finalists Arsenal.
McAteer's endorsement
Speaking to the Liverpool Echo, McAteer said: "I see a more ready-made centre-back coming in who's got international experience, who knows the Premier League, and that for me would be someone like Konsa. I don't think he's done himself any harm with his performances at the World Cup. I think he showed his versatility and maturity."
McAteer praised Konsa's consistency under Unai Emery, adding: "Listen, his performances under Emery for Aston Villa have been exciting. I think he's been solid. I think he's a solid 7.5 out of 10 every game. He's good in the air, he's quick, he reads the game, and obviously Liverpool have missed out on quite a few very good central defenders, with Marc Guehi being one. I don't think they should make that mistake again with Konsa."
Financial considerations
In a separate interview with PariruiX, McAteer highlighted Villa's financial situation: "Villa are very active in the market at the minute. They've lost Morgan Rogers and Youri Tielemans. And when I say active, I mean negatively. Unai Emery will be fighting to keep his sort of marquee players and Konsa is that marquee player, but money talks. If Liverpool are going to go and throw £80million at Konsa and bring him in then Villa, I'm sure for FFP, will take the opportunity for that kind of money."
Experience for young defenders
McAteer believes Konsa's experience would also benefit Liverpool's younger defenders. "When Virgil van Dijk goes you don't want someone who is in that young mould. You want someone who's got that experience, who takes over from Virgil van Dijk and can nurture the younger player when he comes in, so Konsa would be a good buy for me," he concluded. Konsa's arrival could help ease the pressure on Van Dijk while aiding the development of youngsters Jeremy Jacquet and Giovanni Leoni.
