Liverpool Confirm First Transfer of January Window as Defender Leaves

Liverpool FC have officially confirmed their first transfer of the January 2026 window, announcing the departure of defender Ibrahima Konaté amid ongoing contract uncertainties.[1][5]

The club revealed that Konaté, whose contract is nearing its end, has been sold to Inter Milan in a deal reportedly worth around €40 million. This move allows Liverpool to reinvest funds into bolstering their defense, which has been plagued by injuries and inconsistencies this season. With a -2 goal difference after conceding 20 goals in 12 Premier League games, manager Arne Slot faces pressure to reinforce the backline.[5][2]

The catalyst for this transfer was the season-ending ACL injury to young summer signing Giovanni Leoni, leaving Virgil van Dijk as the only reliable center-back. Injuries to Joe Gomez and Konaté's contract standoff prompted decisive action. Sources indicate Liverpool pressured Konaté for a timely extension, but his refusal led to the sale, with proceeds earmarked for Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace.[2][3][5]

Guehi, who nearly joined last summer after a medical, is the prime target. His deal collapsed then, but with his contract expiring soon, Liverpool aim for a cut-price January swoop or pre-contract. Guehi's heart is reportedly "set on Liverpool," despite interest from Bayern Munich and others. Alternatives like Celta Vigo's Oscar Mingueza, Brentford's Nathan Collins, or Club Brugge's Joel Ordonez remain on the shortlist.[2][3][6]

This outgoing clears space and funds, aligning with plans for midfielders like Crystal Palace's Adam Wharton and winger Antoine Semenyo from Bournemouth to address left-wing issues post-Luis Díaz. Despite £400m+ summer spending, Liverpool's mid-table position (7th, 26 points) demands activity.[4][6]

Slot eyes a loan-to-buy for defensive depth, signaling a busy window as the Reds chase top-four. Konaté's exit marks the end of an era, but paves the way for strategic reinforcements.[3][5]

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