The Ibrahima Konate contract saga has taken a sharp turn — and not in Liverpool’s favour.
The French center-back has reportedly turned down two contract offers from the Reds, opening the door for a potential summer exit.
Real Madrid are said to be circling with intent, and with only a year left on his current deal, Liverpool may be forced to act sooner than planned.
Konate’s departure would leave a big hole in Arne Slot’s defense. With Virgil van Dijk ageing, and only Joe Gomez and Rhys Williams as backup, Liverpool cannot afford to be short at the back, not with four competitions ahead.
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Giovanni Leoni emerges as possible long-term fix for Ibrahima Konate
While Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi has long been admired at Anfield, his hefty price tag — rumoured to be £50 million — has put that move on ice for now. Instead, Liverpool appears to be turning their attention to youth.
One name on their radar is Giovanni Leoni, the 18-year-old Parma defender who impressed in Serie A last season.
Speaking to Rousing the Kop, journalist Graeme Bailey said: “I do believe he is one on Liverpool’s radar, they’ve seen him and have been impressed by him.”
Leoni, known for his calmness on the ball and ability to play out from the back, fits the mold of a modern defender.
He’s raw but full of promise—a classic Liverpool move, much like when they plucked Stefan Bajčetić before anyone blinked.
But there’s a catch. Bailey added: “I’m told that Parma want to keep him this summer… he’s also not the sort of person who’d want to sit on the bench.”
So, if Leoni isn’t keen on a supporting role, Liverpool may have to think twice before making a move now.
Fans may hope for an instant fix, but the club seems focused on planning for the long haul.
Whether that’s with Guehi, Leoni, or a surprise name, one thing is clear — Liverpool don’t want to get caught offside in the transfer market.
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