Ibrahima Konate BULLIED off-the-pace Viktor Gyokeres, Dominik Szoboszlai's extraordinary stats and the new signing who must do more - LEWIS STEELE
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Liverpool are currently facing a critical decision regarding defender Ibrahima Konaté, who has become a contract rebel amid ongoing transfer speculation. Konaté, 26, joined Liverpool in 2021 from RB Leipzig for £35 million and played a key role in their 2024/25 Premier League title win. However, his current contract expires in 2026, and Liverpool have struggled to secure a renewal despite offering new terms. The club is reportedly willing to accept a €60 million offer to avoid losing him for free next year.
Real Madrid is strongly interested in Konaté and aims to capitalize on his fading contract situation. The Spanish giants are prepared to offer a contract that surpasses Liverpool's proposal financially and are seen as the frontrunner to sign him. According to reports, Konaté has rejected a substantial contract offer from an unnamed Saudi Pro League team, indicating his preference to remain in top European competition. There is speculation that Konaté may want to follow another player, Marc Guéhi, who is linked with a move to Real Madrid at the end of the 2025-26 season.
Liverpool are also preparing to offer Konaté a new contract but have contingency plans if he refuses, which could include selling the defender in the summer transfer window or in January. The club's defensive depth is likely to be impacted depending on Konaté's decision, with considerations for potential signings such as Giovanni Leoni and Marc Guéhi to balance the squad in his absence.
Overall, Konaté’s future at Anfield remains uncertain amid strong European interest and contract negotiations. While Liverpool wish to retain the star defender, Real Madrid's pursuit and Konaté's wage demands place Liverpool in a challenging position to secure his services long-term.
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