Contract renewal talks between Liverpool and Ibrahima Konate are still at a stalemate, according to [David Ornstein](https://x.com/David_Ornstein/status/2053922922469945771?s=20).
The Reds are trying to get the Frenchman to sign on the dotted line as his contract with the Merseyside outfit ends this summer.
Liverpool have been pushing for a renewal for some time, but he is not budging, and Ornstein believes things are not looking particularly positive.
The general feeling from his camp is that he wants to stay at Anfield, but the club has refused to match his terms.
With both sides at an impasse, there is a possibility that Konate could leave Liverpool for free this summer.
Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain have been credited with interest in his services, and [despite pulling out of the race for his signature](https://footballtoday.com/2025/11/05/upamecano-has-agreed-to-join-real-madrid-konate-no-longer-a-priority/), Real Madrid could revive their pursuit.
Liverpool will need to start making contingency plans in case the 26-year-old leaves.
Virgil Van Dijk will remain at the club, but Joe Gomez is expected to leave, while Jeremy Jacquet and Giovanni Leoni are returning from long-term setbacks.
With two young defenders already in the mix, Liverpool could use another experienced centre-half who can adeptly replace Konate.
The Reds should consider a move for Crystal Palace defender Maxence Lacroix, who matches Konate’s aggression and then some.
The 26-year-old Frenchman has emerged as a leader for the Eagles and one of the best in the Premier League this term.
He has helped his side keep 11 clean sheets in 33 league appearances this term, winning 60 percent of his ground and aerial duels.
Lacroix is the battle-hardened, experienced figure Arne Slot’s side should be eyeing if Konate departs.
Speaking of the Dutch manager, Ornstein revealed that he is likely to stay at the club beyond this summer at least, and the same goes for sporting director Richard Hughes.