Konate Future Uncertain as Liverpool Face Contract Dilemma
Liverpool are weighing up a pivotal decision over Ibrahima Konate’s long-term future, with the French defender yet to agree fresh terms on his contract that runs until 2026.
Signed from RB Leipzig for £35 million in 2021, the 26-year-old has become an integral figure at Anfield, playing a significant role in last season’s Premier League title triumph. However, while his performances this campaign have been inconsistent, his ceiling remains among the highest in Europe when fully fit and in form.
The issue for Liverpool is clear: risk allowing Konate’s contract to wind down, or act decisively in the transfer market.
Real Madrid Circle as Contract Talks Stall
Real Madrid are closely monitoring the situation, with their recruitment team eager to seize upon Liverpool’s hesitation. From January, the Spanish giants would be permitted to approach Konate directly with a Bosman pre-contract agreement.
Reports in Spain suggest Konate is holding out for a package worth more than the £200,000 per week currently discussed with Liverpool. Madrid, backed by their financial power and lure of history, are expected to exceed that figure while also offering a considerable signing-on fee.
Such interest inevitably complicates Liverpool’s position. If no breakthrough is reached, the Reds may be forced into considering offers either before the September transfer deadline or in January – a move that would prevent the prospect of losing a key asset for free in 2026.
Saudi Offer Turned Down by Konate
According to sources in Spain, Liverpool were prepared to sanction a €60 million move to the Saudi Pro League this summer. The approach, however, was blocked by the player himself, who declined the chance to leave Europe at this stage of his career.
While the offer was financially significant, Liverpool are understood to have accepted the proposal in principle. Yet Konate’s reluctance to depart underlines his determination to either extend his stay at Anfield or pursue a move to a club competing at the very top of the Champions League.
This rejection may offer Liverpool a degree of encouragement that their defender is open to remaining on Merseyside – but it also leaves Madrid in prime position should contract negotiations fail.
Defensive Planning and Potential Alternatives
Liverpool’s sporting director Richard Hughes faces a balancing act. If Konate commits, it secures the core of the defence for the coming years. If he declines, the Reds may have to identify a replacement swiftly, with Marc Guehi of Crystal Palace among those admired.
The decision to turn down €60 million suggests Liverpool still value Konate highly, but unless a contract extension is agreed, there remains the risk of losing him for a reduced fee or even for nothing.
At 26, Konate is entering the peak years of his career. Whether those are spent at Anfield, the Bernabéu, or elsewhere depends on delicate negotiations that could define Liverpool’s defensive future.
