Chelsea has reportedly made the first move to sign Ibrahima Konate on a free transfer before Xabi Alonso officially starts his contract as manager at Stamford Bridge
09:37, 02 Jun 2026
Ibrahima Konate during the Premier League game between Chelsea and Liverpool.
Ibrahima Konate during the Premier League game between Chelsea and Liverpool.(Image: Robin Jones/Getty Images)
Liverpool confirmed on Sunday that Ibrahima Konate would be leaving as a free agent following the expiry of his contract at Anfield, though his next destination has not been lined up yet.
Only a few weeks ago, Konate was insistent when chatting to reporters that he expected to remain at Liverpool beyond the end of the season. Indeed, he wasn't given a farewell on the final day of the season because his contract situation was still being worked out.
News soon emerged, though, that an agreement had failed to be reached. Liverpool and Konate were not on the same page, and it was determined that the best course of action was to part ways.
Previously, Real Madrid has been interested in Konate — it has brought in plenty of players on free transfers in recent years — while PSG has also been mentioned in some quarters as a potential landing spot.
But there has been no concrete update yet on where he might head next. There have been links with Saudi Arabia, but that feels unlikely for a player in his prime.
Meanwhile, The Athletic says Chelsea has made an inquiry about him. Xabi Alonso is looking to add some proven quality and experience to his roster and Konate could fit the bill.
Ibrahima Konate and Hugo Ekitike during a Champions League game for Liverpool.
Ibrahima Konate and Hugo Ekitike during a Champions League game for Liverpool.(Image: Simon Stacpoole/Offside via Getty Images)
"Five years ago, I arrived as a young player with big dreams," Konate wrote on social media when his exit was confirmed. "Today, I leave with memories that will stay with me for the rest of my life.
"Representing this club has been an honor. We’ve shared incredible moments together... highs and lows, trophies, challenges, lifelong friendships, and heartbreaking moments that will stay with us forever, none more painful than losing our brother Diogo (Jota).
"Losing my father this year was one of the hardest periods of my life, but even through hardship, my commitment to this club never changed. During the toughest moments, I gave everything I had for this badge.
"To my teammates, coaches, staff and everyone behind the scenes, thank you for helping me grow every single day.
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"And to the supporters... thank you for your love, your energy, and your incredible support. Anfield is truly a special place, and playing in front of you was something I never took for granted."
Konate signed for Liverpool in 2021 for a fee of around $49 million (£36 million) from RB Leipzig. He won the Premier League title with the club but struggled with injuries and inconsistency at times.
Liverpool.com says: Konate will undoubtedly be a big miss in terms of his quality and experience in the locker room, and he will need to be replaced. Jeremy Jacquet is coming in, but he is only 20 and can't be expected to be the answer straight away.