Arne Slot’s sacking at Liverpool will not change Ibrahima Konate’s plans, he’s definitely leaving Anfield this summer.
L’Equipe report today that ‘it’s definitely over’ for the French centre-back at Liverpool after his turnaround this week.
Liverpool exit
The French newspaper reports that the 27-year-old has announced to his Liverpool teammates that there will be no change of heart. He will not be extending his contract with Liverpool beyond this summer.
The centre-back is set to become a free agent at the end of the month. Reports had initially stated that he would sign a new deal at Anfield and remain at the club.
There was a sudden turnaround in that plan this week, though. Sport Witness covered a report in France explaining that ‘internal disagreements’ at Liverpool had led to a breakdown in talks with Ibrahima Konate and his team.
That has since been backed up by reports in England. Those reports have made it clear that there is too big a gap between what Liverpool are willing to pay and what Konate is currently asking for.
And it seems that decision will be a final one. According to L’Equipe, he has told Liverpool’s squad that ‘there will be no change of heart’ this summer. His decision to depart has not been affected by Arne Slot’s sacking on Saturday.
Where next for Konate?
Where Ibrahima Konate ends up next, remains to be seen. Reports have long linked him with a move to Real Madrid, but the turmoil at the Spanish club has seen those links quieten in recent months.
A report this week insisted that Chelsea intend to make an effort for him this summer. They’re planning a big build under Xabi Alonso, and the centre-back is reportedly among his potential targets.
Konate is not expecting to have his future decided before the World Cup. That’s means his name is likely to be one that features prominently throughout the summer transfer window.