Former Liverpool striker Stan Collymore has put forward a bold and unconventional solution to an uncertain defensive structure at Anfield, suggesting the Reds should explore a potential swap deal involving Iraima Konate and Aston Villa defender Ezri Konsa.
With Virgil van Dijk approaching the final stages of his career and question marks over Konate’s consistency and long-term future, Liverpool are quietly entering a crucial transition period for the centre-back.
Any decision made this summer could define the club’s defensive strength for the next five years.
Stan Collymore proposes a Konate–Konsa swap deal
Speaking to BetWright (quotes via the Mirror), Collymore urged Liverpool’s recruitment team to prioritize homegrown talent who offer both credibility and value.
He identified Aston Villa’s Ezri Konsa and Crystal Palace’s Marc Guéhi as fit to revamp Liverpool’s defence.
Collymore’s opinion focuses on the current financial situation and Konate’s changing situation.
He noted that Aston Villa’s continued pressure to comply with Profit and Resilience Regulations (PSR) could force their hand if a major offer, or player and fee deal involving Konaté, is presented.
“Liverpool must identify someone to fill Ibrahima Konate’s place if he leaves, especially because I don’t see Virgil van Dijk being left much.
“I know there was talk about Marc Guehi, but I’m looking at someone like Ezri Konsa, who will probably start for England in the World Cup alongside John Stones.
“If I were head of recruitment at Liverpool, I think Konsa and Guehi would both be good value deals.
“Aston Villa have PSR issues to sort out, so if they’re going to get a big fee for Konsa, they might have to consider it.
“A lot depends on Konate – if he plays the way he did last season, he should be able to attract a top club in the Champions League.
“However, if his form continues to falter, there is no guarantee that he will move to a club of that type. That is when players like Villa or Newcastle may make an agreement with Liverpool.
Comparing Iraima Konate and Ezri Konsa
These two defenders give different profiles that show different directions of their activities.
While Konate is a visible powerhouse known for his speed of recovery and aerial dominance, his consistency has been a danger recently.
In contrast, Konsa has evolved into one of the most creative and intelligent defenders in the Premier League.
Liverpool’s long-term focus may lie elsewhere
While Collymore proposed a swap between Konate and Konsa, Liverpool should focus elsewhere.
It has been reported that Tottenham star Micky van de Ven wants to move to Liverpool in the summer.
The Reds have long been interested in the Dutch defender, who has been tipped to step into Virgil van Dijk’s shoes.
If Van de Ven wants a move in the summer, the Reds should be on him.
