Liverpool Big Contract Update: Ibrahima Konaté

Liverpool FC faces uncertainty over defender Ibrahima Konaté's future as contract talks stall with less than six months remaining on his current deal, ending this summer. Renowned journalist David Ornstein reported on January 13, 2026, that there has been no breakthrough in negotiations, suggesting the 26-year-old Frenchman is on track to leave Anfield on a free transfer.[1][2][3]

Konaté, who earns around £150,000 per week, has received three contract offers from the club, but disagreements persist over finances and structure. He seeks wages up to £200,000 weekly and prefers guaranteed money over performance-based incentives, causing frustration.[2] His inconsistent 2025-26 season, marked by early errors and fan criticism, has weakened his position, though recent improvements offer some hope.[2]

Ornstein's update in The Athletic's Transfer DealSheet highlights Liverpool "keeping their powder dry" for the next market, with Konaté's potential exit—alongside expiring deals for Virgil van Dijk and Joe Gomez in 2027—prompting a defensive rebuild.[1][2] The club remains committed to renewal, per earlier reports, but no resolution is imminent.[1]

Fans draw parallels to last season's sagas with Mohamed Salah and Van Dijk, who signed extensions in April 2025 despite late drama.[1][2] However, concerns linger, evoking Trent Alexander-Arnold's departure to Real Madrid after stalled talks.[2] With 169 days until potential freedom, anxiety mounts, but time remains for a turnaround.[3]

This impasse underscores Liverpool's contract strategy amid a shifting backline, setting the stage for summer transfer activity.

(Word count: 298)