Liverpool ‘remain hopeful’ as Richard Hughes held talks with player’s camp this week

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Liverpool centre-back Ibrahima Konate is currently in the final year of his contract, which expires in June 2026, and ongoing talks over an extension have yet to produce an agreement. Konate, 26, who has established himself as Virgil van Dijk’s partner in defense, is reportedly seeking a significant pay rise—from around £70,000 to approximately £200,000 per week—reflecting his status as a first-team regular. Liverpool’s management has proposed a deal with strong performance-related incentives, but Konate prefers a higher guaranteed base salary. The negotiations have been prolonged, with conversations spanning over the past eight to nine months without resolution, and previous verbal agreement attempts faltered late last year and early this year.

The France international’s future at Anfield is uncertain amid interest from elite European clubs, notably Real Madrid, who regard him as a prime target for 2026 if he does not renew with Liverpool. PSG and Barcelona are also reported suitors. Real Madrid’s ongoing pursuit is underscored by the attention of their chief scout, who is preparing to visit England to seek a potential deal. Moreover, during the international break, Konate joked that his France teammate Kylian Mbappe calls him “every two hours” to entice him to join Real Madrid, highlighting the extent of the Spanish club’s recruitment efforts.

Liverpool’s hierarchy, while keen to retain Konate—especially head coach Arne Slot—may be forced into a difficult position by January 2026. To avoid losing him on a free transfer next summer, the club could reluctantly consider selling Konate in the January transfer window for a substantial fee reportedly around €50 million (£43.4 million). This scenario resembles the recent departure of former Liverpool star Trent Alexander-Arnold, who also left for Real Madrid after failing to extend his contract.

Negotiations remain active, but multiple sources, including noted journalist Fabrizio Romano, suggest Konate is more likely to leave Liverpool next year unless a new deal is struck soon. Liverpool continues its efforts to keep the talented defender, but the financial demands, interest from Europe’s giants, and Konate’s current contract status place the club in a delicate situation.

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