Report: Liverpool realise first team starter is leaving by lining up move for his replacement
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Liverpool is facing a significant challenge as their key central defender, Ibrahima Konate, has reportedly decided to leave the club at the end of his contract, with Real Madrid strongly interested in signing him. Konate, who has rejected multiple contract renewal offers from Liverpool, is now in the final year of his deal, expiring in June 2026, and may join Real Madrid on a free transfer, mirroring the recent departure of Trent Alexander-Arnold to the same club.
Konate has been a crucial defensive figure for Liverpool since joining from RB Leipzig in 2021, often partnering with Virgil van Dijk. Despite Liverpool’s efforts to convince him to stay by offering a third new contract, the negotiations have stalled, leaving the club in a precarious position. Real Madrid is reportedly waiting to strike as soon as January when Konate can legally negotiate a pre-contract agreement with them.
Liverpool’s ability to secure a replacement is now a pressing issue. With Trent Alexander-Arnold already gone and Konate likely to follow, the Reds need to look at alternatives such as Marc Guehi, although his transfer discussions have been complicated, or develop young prospects like Leonie, who is still considered raw. The potential departures signify a defensive reshuffle for Liverpool and present a challenging period for the club's backline stability.
Fabrizio Romano has noted that Liverpool will continue trying to extend Konate’s contract through the season, but with Real Madrid’s interest remaining strong and Konate’s ambitions possibly aligning with a move to Spain, the situation remains uncertain. Liverpool faces the risk of losing two key defenders almost simultaneously, pressing the club to strategize effectively for maintaining defensive solidity.
PP