Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate is not pressing for a move to Paris Saint-Germain, according to reports.
It was claimed earlier this week that PSG are interested in recruiting the 25-year-old this summer, with the player keen on returning to the city where he grew up.
However, a source has told Get France Football News that the rumour is “completely unfounded,” with Konate still focused on playing for the Reds.
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The centre-back is a key member of Arne Slot‘s first-team squad, having made 26 appearances in all competitions this season.
Konate’s contract situation has prompted speculation
The France international has just under 18 months remaining on his contract but, when asked last month whether he had been offered a new deal by Liverpool, he replied:
“Yes. This is another conversation… I am really focused on what happens now. We will see what will happen.”
The fact that Konate has not put pen to paper yet would suggest that he is not happy with the proposal on the table, and that has clearly fed into rumours about a potential exit from Anfield in recent weeks.
Liverpool do have contingency plans in place
With captain Virgil van Dijk’s contract set to expire this summer, sporting director Richard Hughes and the club’s recruitment staff need to be prepared to replace both the Dutchman and Konate.
It has been reported in the German media that the Reds have expressed an interest in Castello Lukeba, along with Manchester United and Chelsea.
Lukeba plays for Konate’s former team RB Leipzig and there is said to be a release clause in his contract worth €90m (£75m). Both the player and his agent are very keen on a transfer going ahead at the end of the season. It remains to be seen whether he will end up on Merseyside.
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