Liverpool have completed the signing of RB Leipzig centre-back Ibrahima Konate on a long-term contract.
The Reds have finalised a £36million deal for the 22-year-old defender as he becomes Jurgen Klopp's first signing of the summer transfer window.
Klopp's side are in need of reinforcements in this area of the pitch having seen how quickly a Premier League season can turn when unexpected events occur.
Konate will be a strong addition as the Reds plot a title charge, but what impact is his signing likely to have on other players at the club?
We have assessed the likely outcomes below...
Ben Davies
Ben Davies was signed by Liverpool in February due to the club's injury crisis.
Since arriving at Anfield, though, the 25-year-old is yet to make a first-team appearance.
Davies signed a long-term contract at the club, believed to be five years, and cost £1.6million.
With Virgil van Dijk, Joel Matip and Joe Gomez all expected to make returns from injury and Konate added to the group, it's hard to see how Davies will feature.
It remains to be seem whether or not the former Preston defender will be happy to stick around despite a lack of opportunities, though a sale may be an option considered.
Ozan Kabak
Ozan Kabak was the other defender signed by Liverpool to address at the end of the winter transfer window as the Reds urgently sought back-up.
The Turkish defender made nine Premier League appearances before suffering an injury of his own which ruled him out of the final five league games.
Kabak showed glimpses of his quality during his short stay, but latest reports have claimed Liverpool will not activate the £18million release clause available to them.
He will now return to parent club Schalke.
Joel Matip
A more complicated issue for Liverpool to address.
When fit, Matip has proven himself to be a reliable defender for the Reds. The trouble is, that hasn't been the case all that often.
The 29-year-old has been ruled out since January and now faces a battle on his hands to get back into the team.
Matip is under contract at Liverpool until 2024 and is not someone the club are likely to dispose of.
He may have to accept less of a starring role next campaign.
Who would you like to see Liverpool sign this summer? Comment below.
Joe Gomez
Gomez formed an excellent partnership alongside Van Dijk in Liverpool's 2019/20 title-winning season.
It was hoped this could be repeated as the Reds looked to defend their Premier League crown, but the pair suffered season-ending injuries early on in the campaign.
Still only 24, the England international has time on his side to remain a key player for Klopp.
Gomez is likely to be ahead of Matip in the centre-back pecking order, but could lose out to Konate.
Virgil van Dijk
The man Liverpool have missed most.
Van Dijk will come straight back into the team next season, regardless of Konate's transfer.
The Dutch defender has arguably been the most most important signing of Klopp's reign and fans will be desperate to see him back on the pitch.
All this transfer will mean for the 29-year-old is that he may be lining up with a new partner in defence.
Rhys Williams
It has been a dream campaign for Rhys Williams.
The 20-year-old went from spending last season on loan in the National League North at Kidderminster Harriers to playing in the Champions League at Anfield.
But as the Reds' usual first-team options begin to make comebacks, there will be fewer opportunities available.
Latest reports suggest a loan move will be the most likely outcome for Williams, enabling the youngster to gain more experience.
Nat Phillips
Nat Phillips has become somewhat of a cult hero at Liverpool.
The 24-year-old was a name not all supporters were familiar with, though he has taken his first-team chance and made a positive impression in trying circumstances.
Phillips' performances will have attracted attention from other clubs in the division and reports claim he could be allowed to leave this summer.
