Ibrahima Konaté Offers Clue into Liverpool's Centre-Back Plan After Marc Guehi Debacle - Opinion

Liverpool's defensive woes have intensified following the dramatic collapse of the Marc Guehi transfer from Crystal Palace on deadline day. Ibrahima Konaté, the towering French centre-back, has subtly hinted at the club's future plans through recent comments and social media activity, amid a noticeable dip in form from both him and captain Virgil van Dijk this season.[1]

The Guehi debacle left fans frustrated, as Liverpool pushed hard for the England international but saw the deal fall through at the last moment. Despite this setback, sources indicate the Reds remain keen on Guehi, with a potential summer move on the cards. However, Manchester City are now circling with a £20 million bid, while Arsenal also linger in the background.[1]

Konaté's latest interviews and posts offer a telling clue: he's expressed frustration over his own injury-plagued campaign and contract uncertainty—no breakthrough in extension talks, with his deal expiring in June 2026, just 169 days away.[3][5] Pundits interpret this as a signal that Liverpool are actively reshaping their centre-back roster, potentially moving Konaté on to fund reinforcements.

Manager Arne Slot has drawn up a definitive plan. The club is "bound to sign" a new centre-back, either this January or definitely in the summer.[1] Top targets include Rennes' Jeremy Jacquet, whose versatility has caught scouts' eyes, and Club Brugge's Joel Ordóñez, though Ecuadorian rumours of an imminent deal have been dismissed.[1] Other names on the radar: a "defensive general" from Aston Villa in a shock Konaté swap deal, and French talents previously linked alongside Guehi.[2][4]

Fans have grown impatient, with calls to sell long-serving players and integrate replacements. Konaté's hints underscore Liverpool's proactive stance—no more gambles like Guehi. A summer overhaul looms, aiming to restore defensive solidity and end the current vulnerabilities exposed by Van Dijk and Konaté's form slump.[1]

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