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Liverpool have plenty to sort out this summer as they aim to build on an unexpectedly successful campaign.

Although the Reds clearly had more than enough to challenge this season, it had been designed as a buffer year for Arne Slot to really get to grips with the club and his players.

Slot deserves credit for doing far better than that, leading Liverpool to a 20th league title at the first time of asking.

From hereon in, the Liverpool head coach is ready to put his own stamp on the squad.

As a result, this summer is expected to be a busy one.

But while most of the attention will be focused on new signings, Liverpool have once again put themselves in a difficult position in regards to contracts.

After the sideshow that was new deals for Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk – and a lack of one for Trent Alexander-Arnold – Ibrahima Konate is now entering the final year of his deal.

And according to Daniel Sturridge, Liverpool absolutely have to get it sorted.

Photo by Liverpool FC/Liverpool FC via Getty Images

Konate has been linked with a transfer away from Liverpool as he moves into the final 12 months of his contract.

The Frenchman has been key to the Reds’ title-winning campaign, only missing seven matches in the Premier League.

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Recognising his importance to the Liverpool squad, Sturridge spoke to Sky Sports on Sunday to urge his old team to sort things out with Konate.

“You’ve got to lock up Konate,” he said when asked about Liverpool’s summer business after watching them lose against Chelsea.

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“That’s very important because his partnership with Virgil van Dijk has been key to the team’s success.

If they can’t sort Konate out with a new deal by the time the summer window opens, they may start to lose control of it.

If a PSG or a Real Madrid come in and make a good offer – to the player and to Liverpool – there is a real danger Konate could leave.

SeasonAppearancesGoalsTrophies2021/22293FA Cup, Carabao Cup2022/23240–2023/24370Carabao Cup2024/25392Premier LeagueIbrahima Konate at Liverpool

After finally staying injury free for most of the season and establishing himself as one of the best centre-backs in Europe once again, that is the last thing Liverpool need.

Since the Reds won the title last month, Konate has been complimentary of the club and its fans.

He does seem happy on Merseyside.

But if Liverpool do not show him that they are happy with him too, then maybe the 25-year-old will start to see his future being elsewhere.
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