Ibrahima Konaté Contract Update Offers Huge Hint at Liverpool Transfer Plans

Liverpool FC faces uncertainty over defender Ibrahima Konaté's future as his contract nears expiry in June 2026, with no breakthrough in extension talks despite ongoing negotiations.[2][3][4]

The 26-year-old French centre-back, currently earning around £150,000 per week, has received three contract proposals from the Reds. However, sticking points include his demand for £200,000 weekly wages and dissatisfaction with the club's performance-based incentive structure, which favors bonuses over guaranteed pay.[3] Konaté's inconsistent form early in the 2025-26 season drew criticism, though he has shown improvement, complicating his bargaining position.[3]

Reliable journalist David Ornstein reports that Liverpool anticipates Konaté departing on a free transfer, stating, "Ibrahima Konaté is on track to exit due to his contract expiring. There has been no breakthrough on new terms."[3][4][5] This impasse echoes stalled talks, with Real Madrid's interest cooling due to his performances, while Paris Saint-Germain has emerged as a suitor.[1]

In response, Liverpool's sporting director Richard Hughes is scouting replacements. The club is tracking 20-year-old Rennes defender Jeremy Jacquet, a highly rated French prospect versatile as a right-sided centre-back or right-back—ideal for the Reds' system. Jacquet, eyed by Chelsea and others, offers lower wages than Konaté, making him an attractive long-term option.[1]

With Virgil van Dijk and Joe Gomez's deals expiring in 2027, Liverpool is prioritizing defensive reinforcements for future windows.[3][4] Fans draw hope from precedents like Mohamed Salah and Van Dijk's late 2025 renewals, but Konaté's situation mirrors Trent Alexander-Arnold's recent free exit to Real Madrid.[3]

Konaté previously dismissed "take-it-or-leave-it" offer rumors and hinted at a decision soon, yet clarity remains elusive less than six months out.[4] As talks drag, the club prepares for potential upheaval at the backline's core.

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