Report: Liverpool receive response after submitting third contract offer to Konate

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Liverpool have submitted a new contract offer to Ibrahima Konaté as they intensify efforts to retain the French defender amid growing interest from Real Madrid. The latest offer was presented to Konaté’s agent on Monday, marking the club's fourth attempt to extend the centre-back's stay at Anfield. Despite previous rejections, Liverpool remain confident, reportedly offering more lucrative terms than the Spanish giants, who are preparing to target Konaté for a free transfer next summer to strengthen their defense following a €120 million spending spree this summer.

Real Madrid's pursuit of Konaté aligns with their plans for a defensive overhaul, particularly with both Antonio Rudiger and David Alaba potentially leaving. The 26-year-old defender’s contract is set to expire in 2026, which places Liverpool in a position where they either need to secure his extension or risk losing him on a free transfer.

However, contract talks have reached an impasse. Konaté is believed to be holding out for a contract package that better reflects his value, while Liverpool have adopted a pragmatic approach, wary of overextending financially given the player's injury record. Since joining Liverpool, Konaté has struggled with injuries, resulting in relatively limited playing time—only just surpassing 2,000 Premier League minutes last season. Liverpool trust their medical staff to maintain his fitness but factor his injury history heavily into negotiations.

The club's stance remains firm: they are unwilling to beg for the player’s commitment and are balancing respect for Konaté's demands against financial prudence. As the defender approaches the final year of his contract, both Liverpool and Konaté weigh their options carefully, with Real Madrid watching closely to capitalize on the situation.

PP