There is a new update regarding the contract discussions between Liverpool and Ibrahima Konate.
The French centre-back has been one of Liverpool’s better performers this season. He helped the Reds secure the Premier League title with his combination of physical dominance, tactical intelligence, and leadership, solidifying a backline that was crowned English champions with four games to spare.
Konate started 26 league matches, his highest tally since joining Liverpool in 2021.
However, despite his importance to the Liverpool team, Konate’s contract talks with the club have hit an impasse.
The French defender’s current £80,000-per-week deal expires in 2026, and negotiations opened in October 2024 have failed to bridge the gap between his demands (£200,000 weekly) and the club’s valuation.
It has been claimed that Paris Saint-Germain is prepared to meet these terms, offering the added lure of captaincy and a return to his hometown.
His age (25) and ceiling as a world-class defender make him a strategic asset.
Real Madrid is also interested, and they are looking to repeat their trick with Trent Alexander-Arnold by waiting to get Konate for free next summer.
Recently, he was quizzed on the prospect of a new deal with Liverpool, and he said:
“New deal? This is a conversation with the club, and we will see,” he said to Canal+ on Sunday.
While speculation remains if he will sign a new deal, Liverpool do not want his contract talks with him to linger.
According to Ouest France, the Reds do not want a repeat of the Trent situation, so they intend to decide Konate’s future in a matter of weeks.
“Konaté is under contract with Liverpool until 2026, but has not yet decided on the next steps in his career,” the report from the French publication reads.
“While PSG is closely monitoring his situation, Real Madrid, for its part, is reportedly considering waiting until his contract expires to sign him on a free transfer, similar to what happened with Trent Alexander-Arnold.
“Aware of the danger, the Reds’ management intends to intensify discussions to extend their defender’s contract. No decision has yet been made, but a conclusion is expected in the coming weeks.”
Liverpool know they cannot risk another costly contract mistake and will want to reach a decision on Konate before the summer transfer window closes.
Since arriving from RB Leipzig in 2021, the 25-year-old has established himself as one of the Premier League’s most formidable centre-backs.
His blend of pace, physicality and composure has made him a natural partner for Virgil van Dijk and a crucial component of Liverpool’s defensive line.
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