Five facts about Liverpool target & Ukranian wing wizard Yevhen Konoplyanka

Mark Brus

10 years ago

With Liverpool said to be closing in on a possible free transfer of Dnipro’s Ukranian winger Yevhen Konoplyanka, here’s a look at five facts Reds fans should know about their possible summer signing as he edges nearer a move to Anfield…

1) Liverpool move blocked in the past

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According to the Guardian, Liverpool have previously had a £16m move for Konoplyanka all but done, only for Dnipro’s president Ihor Kolomoyskyi to block the transfer at the last minute after refusing to accept the player’s departure. With the 25-year-old now said to be available on a free transfer at the end of his contract, that shouldn’t be an issue again as the Reds look to snap up the exciting attacker.

2) Made his debut at 17

An exciting talent from a young age, Konoplyanka first became a regular for Dnipro back in 2007 when he was still only 17. Although he only made two more appearances that term, he was more of a fixture in the side the following season and now boasts a record of 43 goals in 196 games for the club.

3) He’s already scored in England

Konoplyanka has already made an impression on English soil, scoring a stunning solo effort against the England national team in a match at Wembley, so he’ll have good memories of his travels here.

4) Multiple player of the year winner

Clearly too good for the level he’s currently playing at, Konoplyanka has been named Ukranian footballer of the year three times, in 2010, 2012 and 2013, whilst also making it into the Europa League team of the season back in 2012.

5) Black belt in karate!

Away from football, Konoplyanka may also owe his strong kicking ability to his experience in karate, in which he is a black belt! Defenders next season may think twice about challenging him too strongly…

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