Liverpool boss Arne Slot. (Photo by Andrew Powell/Liverpool FC via Getty Images)placeholder image
Liverpool boss Arne Slot. (Photo by Andrew Powell/Liverpool FC via Getty Images) | Liverpool FC via Getty Images
Liverpool have more contracts to sort out and Real Madrid are considering another bargain swoop.
Liverpool haven’t just started the transfer window well, it can be argued that the two best signings were made before the season even ended.
Real Madrid keeping tabs on Ibrahima Konate’s Liverpool contract stand-off
Robertson could be sold to Atletico Madrid with his replacement already identified, but there has been news on the club’s stance on Konate. The Reds would “seriously consider” an exit for the Frenchman this summer if a new contract cannot be agreed.
According to Fichajes, Konate has something of an ultimatum, with a familiar foe lurking in the background: “Real Madrid has been closely monitoring the French centre-back, considering his signing to strengthen a defence that needs to be revamped following Militao's fitness issues and Alaba's inconsistency. The club is keen on a possible free transfer next year, although they haven't ruled out a move to a faster rate if Liverpool decide to sell this summer.
“The English club's position is clear: if there's no long-term commitment, they'll look for a profitable exit. Although Merseysiders are confident of retaining Konaté, they're aware of the risk of repeating complicated contractual situations like the one they're currently facing with other key players in the squad. Time is ticking, and the French international's future is more open than ever.”
Even if Liverpool have to cut their losses on Konate and sell at a discounted price, the fact that they secured his signature from RB Leipzig for £36m makes things a lot easier to take – if he doesn’t put pen to paper on a new deal.
Who could Liverpool target to replace Konate?
There is no reason why, even with just a year left of his contract, the Reds couldn’t push for a similar sort of transfer fee and at least get their money back.
The England international has a year left on his own contract at Crystal Palace and with their participation in Europe in doubt, it wouldn’t be a surprise if he decides to make his anticipated big move now.
Guehi’s situation is similar to Konate’s in that his club doesn’t want him to leave, but there is a realisation that keeping him isn’t possible.
Liverpool are also open to selling Jarell Quansah which suggests that they have centre-half targets already lined up, regardless of what happens with Konate. Left-back and right-back seem sorted for the long-term which makes addressing the issue in the middle a lot easier.
It’s an issue that will be immediately solved if Konate signs a new deal to send Madrid packing though.
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