Liverpool on Friday completed the signing of centre-back Ibrahima Konate from German outfit RB Leipzig on a long-term contract which would begin from July 1.

The Anfield club confirmed that it has reached an agreement with Leipzig to pay Konate’s £36m release clause and his signing is subject to international clearance and a successful work permit application process.

A statement on the club’s website read: “Liverpool Football Club have reached an agreement for the transfer of Ibrahima Konate from RB Leipzig.

“The 22-year-old defender has agreed a long-term contract with the Reds from July 1, subject to international clearance and a successful work permit application process, after finalising terms and passing a medical.

Reacting to the signing, Konate told Liverpoolfc.com: “I’m really happy to be joining such a massive club like Liverpool.

“It’s a really exciting moment for me and my family and I am really looking forward to meeting my new teammates, the staff and getting started on this new chapter.

“Right now, my focus is on the U21 European Championships with France, but after this competition I know I will be joining one of the best teams in the world and that gives me a great feeling.

“I have worked very hard for many years to get to this point, but I would like to say a big thank you to everyone at RB Leipzig and all the people I worked with there – the coaches, my teammates, the staff and especially the fans.

“Your support helped me grow up during my time there and become not only a better player, but a better man and I will always be grateful for it.”

Konate made 21 appearances for Leipzig this season including eight Bundesliga starts having made 95 overall appearances and scored four goals.