It’s the update no one should be surprised at. Ibrahima Konate’s inconsistent performances are beginning to put off potential suitors.
Perhaps “inconsistent” is a kind word for the Liverpool defender’s standards this season. His displays have baffled.
Despite all the negativity surrounding Konate, he has at times been outstanding. That was the case against Arsenal and Burnley in the early weeks of the campaign, and even recently in defeat to Manchester United. However, those highs were offset by several dismal lows, as his chaotic showings went unpunished in August and September. Of late, Konate has embodied Arne Slot’s side: nervous, erratic, and dreadfully underperforming.
The last three performances have been truly shocking for a player who was among the league’s best defenders last season. He has now been withdrawn in seven of his 18 starts this season. It’s not quite the standard Real is looking for.
Hence, The Athletic’s update that the 15-time European champions have communicated their diminished interest should not come as a shock.
Why would the side that styles itself as the continent’s best look to recruit an error-strewn liability?
Los Blancos are not the only club linked with Konate. Bayern Munich, Paris Saint-Germain, and Barcelona have also been credited with interest in the Frenchman, but neither of the trio specializes in recruiting free agents quite like Real.
Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate's contract expires next summer
Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate's contract expires next summer (Image: Getty)
Make no mistake, Friday’s update means Konate’s chances of remaining at Liverpool beyond June are significantly greater.
Despite some social media grumblings, that is a positive. It seems many fans have quickly forgotten just how impressive Konate was last season, and there have been flashes of that defensive colossus at times this season.
It should not be overlooked that Liverpool remains keen on securing the former RB Leipzig man’s long-term future. The club does not underestimate his quality despite the disappointing start to the season.
Meanwhile, center-back is becoming an increasingly precarious position in Slot’s squad. Virgil van Dijk’s standards have dropped, and his contract expires at the end of next season.
As does Joe Gomez’s. As reported by Liverpool.com earlier this month, the Reds are willing to let the long-serving player leave should they have sufficient options in that area.
Marc Guehi remains a transfer target
Marc Guehi remains a transfer target (Image: Photo by Matt McNulty/Getty Images)
Giovanni Leoni’s transfer has not gone to plan since his summer arrival, and there are no guarantees he will be fit this time next year following that season-ending ACL injury.
Marc Guehi remains a transfer target, one Liverpool could still make a January move or sign for free next summer, or even lose out on altogether. He is not short of interest from Europe’s preeminent clubs.
Another intriguing figure lurking in the background is Jarell Quansah. The England international departed Anfield last summer and is excelling at Bayer Leverkusen. Liverpool retains a buyback option, which could be exercised next year. Given the deficiencies at the heart of defense this season, few would be surprised if Liverpool did.
All this feeds into the Konate saga. There are so many unknowns in that area.
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - NOVEMBER 9: Ibrahima Konate of Liverpool lines up before the Premier League match between Manchester City and Liverpool at Etihad Stadium on November 9, 2025 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Visionhaus/Getty Images)
Konate's future has become a major talking point in recent weeks (Image: Getty Images)
Undoubtedly, Liverpool’s no.5 remains the greatest of those uncertainties, and Friday’s update does not necessarily mean he will remain at the club next season.
That is unlikely to help with his volatile form, and it is perhaps not a surprise that Konate’s standards have dropped since he entered the final year of his contract.
Getting them back to last season’s levels must now be the priority. That will be a positive for Liverpool, Konate, and any other interested parties.
The Reds won’t be interested in the latter, though. They will hope Friday’s update clears some of the fog that has engulfed Konate over recent weeks, and ultimately, result in him renewing extension talks.