Ibrahima Konate is to leave Liverpool when his contract expires next month after failing to agree a new deal and Chelsea are one of three clubs interested
14:39, 29 May 2026
Xabi Alonso
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Incoming Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso could land Ibrahima Konate on a free transfer from Liverpool(Image: Rene Nijhuis/MB Media)
Chelsea are reportedly ready to make a move for Ibrahima Konate as the defender prepares to leave Liverpool this summer.
Konate is to leave the Reds when his contract expires next month after failing to agree a new deal.
And French publication L’Equipe is reporting that Chelsea are one of several clubs interested in the French international and Xabi Alonso's intends to try his luck.
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However, the Blues aren’t alone, as both Real Madrid and Bayern Munich are mentioned in the piece as possible destinations for the centre-back.
Konate had outlined his intention to stay for the long term just moments after the 2-1 win against Everton at Hill Dickinson Stadium last month.
Speaking after that game, he said: “For sure there is a big chance I’m here next season. This is what I always wanted.
"To be fair, there are many things people have said, but for a long time we have spoken with the club and we are [now] close to an agreement. I think everyone wished for that for as long as possible but we are in a good way."
His departure gives Liverpool another headache they did not need heading into a crucial summer having said farewell to senior players Mohamed Salah and Andy Robertson.
Ibrahima Konate after a Liverpool game
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Ibrahima Konate is set to leave Liverpool(Image: Liverpool FC/Liverpool FC via Getty Images)
Alonso, who signed a four-year contract earlier this month, will begin his new role on July 1, giving him plenty of time to prepare for a busy summer.
But following a 2-1 defeat to Sunderland on the final day of the season, the Blues failed to qualify for the Conference League.
However, Wayne Rooney believes Chelsea's failure to qualify for Europe will help them become "a real threat" in the Premier League next season.
"I think they'll be a real threat next season," he said on the Wayne Rooney Podcast.
"Obviously having one game a week, and then with Alonso coming in, I think it's exciting for the Premier League because I think he's got the potential to be a top manager.
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"It gives him a period of time to feel his way into the club and get his ideas across. So I think it will benefit the football club."
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