Below is a summary of the full article. Click here for the full version or go back to LFC Live.net

Liverpool have reportedly offered Ibrahima Konate a new contract, as his current deal is set to expire in 2026.

The French defender was undoubtedly the backbone of Liverpool’s defensive unit last season.

His partnership with Virgil van Dijk was a key factor in the Reds’ winning the Premier League title.

As Liverpool remain very active in the transfer market this summer, Konate might have felt slightly overlooked by the club.

He already rejected a previous contract extension offer last month, according to multiple reports.

Currently, Konate earns around £70k per week at Anfield — a figure significantly lower than what many of his teammates and new signings are being paid.

The 26-year-old was reportedly unhappy with the situation and is now said to be exploring other options.

Real Madrid have emerged as one of the top contenders for his signature, with reports suggesting that Florentino Perez has already started working to bring him in for free in 2026 — similar to the way they secured Trent Alexander-Arnold.

Aware of the growing interest, Liverpool are reportedly open to selling Konate this summer if he doesn’t agree to a new deal.

However, the situation might now be turning in Liverpool’s favour.

ALSO READ: Andy Robertson reveals Liverpool’s key priorities for pre-season

According to Sacha Tavolieri, the Premier League champions have submitted an improved contract proposal to Konate that would extend his stay until 2029.

The club now seems focused on convincing the defender to remain at Merseyside.

Meanwhile, Arne Slot still wants to strengthen the backline this summer.