As Ibrahima Konate enters the final 12 months of his Liverpool contract, we will explore how a different approach could avoid a transfer saga like last season’s, which dominated the narrative off the pitch.
The Premier League champions have already made three signings this summer, with British-record fee Florian Wirtz chief among them.
However, Liverpool fans will be wary of too much change and losing Konate, who formed a fearsome defensive partnership with Virgil van Dijk, would sting if he were to leave on a free transfer.
Konate’s ability to step up to the opposition’s press and his tireless aggression in defending the right flank have made him a prized asset for Arne Slot, and one he will hope is a mainstay on his side.
Hierarchical harmony puts Reds in driving seat
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While some are fearing an unwanted sequel of failed contract negotiations, it is important to note the club’s tumultuous position when dealing with the original picture in Trent Alexander-Arnold.
Over the past two years, Liverpool have had three different sporting directors and such instability can create a vacuum of undesirability.
AFC Bournemouth v Liverpool FC - Premier League | Bryn Lennon/GettyImages
While this undoubtedly hindered negotiations with Alexander-Arnold, Richard Hughes has enjoyed a stellar debut season in preserving a title-winning squad and securing the futures of Mohamed Salah and skipper Virgil van Dijk.
Ideally, Hughes would have ignited extension talks a year ago but the sporting director can be forgiven for inheriting an overwhelming in-tray but Konate will certainly be outstanding in his workload in the coming months.
Déjà vu? – Galacticos circle once again
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At the age of 26, Konate is entering his prime footballing years so the next step in his career is pivotal for the France international.
While numerous reports ascribe Real Madrid to be interested in securing the defender on a [free transfer,](https://rushthekop.com/ranking-the-5-best-value-signings-in-liverpool-s-history-01jvx9hbyzrg) especially if they miss out on his compatriot William Saliba, Konate’s fate is in his own hands.
Liverpool FC v Real Madrid C.F. - UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Phase MD5 | James Gill - Danehouse/GettyImages
The Frenchman has not given any indication that he is unhappy on Merseyside and while the allure of Europe’s elite is hard to ignore, there is no reason why Konate cannot be part of a football dynasty under Arne Slot at Liverpool.
Hughes and Liverpool will know that should contract talks reach a point of no return in the summer, a sale would be the most suitable option.
Strengthen while on top, regardless of contract outcome
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As [Jarrell Quansah](https://rushthekop.com/liverpool-are-ready-to-pounce-for-england-defender-to-replace-jarell-quansah-01jy83vvjznj) looks set to join Bayer Leverkusen over the coming days, Liverpool are one centre back short and have already started exploring market options.
Marc Guehi has emerged as an opportunistic signing who, like Konate, also has 12 months remaining on his deal at Crystal Palace.
Captain under Oliver Glasner and a key figure in their FA Cup triumph last season, it comes as no surprise that the England international is generating interest from the champions.
Crystal Palace FC v Nottingham Forest FC - Premier League | Sebastian Frej/MB Media/GettyImages
Not only would he bolster Liverpool’s squad but he could also push Konate for a place in the starting XI, especially with the Frenchman’s unsavoury injury record.
Regardless of incomings, Liverpool fans will hope Konate is offered improved terms and is around for the long haul.
A squad with such a high ceiling will look to compete for all of the major honours next season and Konate’s future will be pivotal.