Ibrahima Konate could leave Liverpool this summer when his contract expires at Anfield, with no new deal in sight
Ibrahima Konate
Ibrahima Konate is set to leave Liverpool this summer
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Ibrahima Konate has reportedly informed his teammates that he intends to leave Liverpool this summer when his contract runs out. The future of Konate at Anfield has been a topic of discussion for several months, with his agreement with the Reds due to conclude at the end of June.
News surfaced on Friday suggesting that Konate will not be signing new terms that would extend his five-year spell on Merseyside beyond this summer.
Since his arrival from RB Leipzig in 2021 for £36million, Konate has been a consistent presence in Liverpool's backline. His departure will create a significant void and will probably require Arne Slot's successor to enter the transfer market.
According to French publication RMC Sport, Konate has told his Liverpool teammates that his decision is final and he will depart Anfield when his contract expires. Real Madrid are considered the leading contenders to secure the France international's signature, given their longstanding interest in him.
The report emerged on the same day that Slot was dismissed from his role as head coach, with Liverpool's decision not impacting the defender's plans.
The 2024/25 Premier League champions announced Slot's departure after the club finished fifth in the league, securing Champions League qualification.
The defender stated in April that he was hopeful of putting pen to paper on a fresh deal to prolong his time at Anfield.
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“For sure, there is a big chance I’m here next season. This is what I always wanted,” Konate said on April 19.
"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."
Liverpool are set to welcome at least one new defensive addition this summer, with Jeremy Jacquet due to arrive from Rennes, while the Reds will also be hopeful of having Giovanni Leoni back fit after the centre-back sustained an ACL injury on his debut for the club last September.
Nevertheless, it remains likely that Slot's side could bring in a further defensive signing over the summer, particularly should Joe Gomez ultimately move on.