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Liverpool Adjusts Transfer Plans Following Jota’s Death: Nunez to Stay, Konate Eyes Real Madrid Move

The unexpected death of Diogo Jota has forced Liverpool to reconsider its squad planning for the 2025/26 season. While Jota’s role had diminished under new manager Arne Slot, his knack for timely goals and positional versatility made him a valuable attacking option—particularly in the center-forward role where Liverpool remains thin.

Nunez Likely to Stay

With Jota gone, Darwin Nunez is now Liverpool’s only recognized number nine. The Uruguayan striker had attracted a €50 million bid from Napoli, with an additional €5 million in add-ons. However, the offer, amounting to approximately £43 million, was rejected by Liverpool, who are reportedly holding out for over £50 million to begin negotiations.

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Despite a lukewarm season in terms of form, Liverpool values Nunez not only as an asset but also as a costly investment yet to fully realize its potential. The club spent around €75 million to acquire him from Benfica, and unless a lucrative offer arrives, they prefer retaining him rather than entering the market for an expensive replacement.

Moreover, Arne Slot is set to evaluate Jayden Danns, a promising striker from Liverpool’s academy. Danns showed flashes of promise under former manager Jürgen Klopp and will feature in pre-season friendlies. If he performs well, he could be promoted to provide cover for Nunez.

Konate Eyes Real Madrid on Free Transfer

In defense, Ibrahima Konate may be the next high-profile exit. According to Sky Sports, the French center-back has informed his representatives of his intention to join Real Madrid on a free transfer in 2026, should he not reach a contract extension with Liverpool by then.

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Konate’s contract expires at the end of the 2025/26 season, and negotiations with Liverpool have reportedly stalled due to wage demands. Konate is seeking a significant increase from his current £70,000-per-week salary, preferring a guaranteed base salary rather than performance-based bonuses—something that conflicts with Liverpool’s existing wage structure.

With PSG and Real Madrid monitoring his situation, Konate has already made it clear that Madrid is his preferred destination. If the deal goes through, Konate would follow Trent Alexander-Arnold, who also plans to leave for Madrid under similar circumstances, leaving Liverpool without compensation.

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The situation gains further urgency given that Jarrell Quansah has already been sold to Bayer Leverkusen. Liverpool are now actively looking to reinforce their center-back options. Marc Guehi of Crystal Palace is currently top of their list as a long-term replacement for Konate.

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