Liverpool told to make transfer decision over under-fire player called out by Arne Slot
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Daily Mirror IconSportFootballLiverpool transfer newsLiverpool's backline requires some attention in the transfer market and one former Red believes that the club can avoid that by tying down a defender in the summerArne Slot has been told to tie down Ibrahima Konate(Image: Robbie Jay Barratt - AMA/Getty Images)Liverpool have been advised to extend Ibrahima Konate's contract so that they are not required to be as busy in the transfer market. However, Real Madrid have already pulled out of the race for his signature amid a run of poor form, which led Arne Slot to admit he's been too much "on the crime scene".Slot is already light on players in the centre of defence after Liverpool missed out on signing Marc Guehi in the summer.
They now face competition from across Europe for the free transfer, however.Riise believes Konate's knowledge of Slot's system and methods should encourage Liverpool to think twice before resigning themselves to his exit. The Norwegian admitted that Konate is not always the most convincing player.READ MORE: Ex-Liverpool star is shock contender to replace Xabi Alonso who could be sacked THIS WEEKREAD MORE: Jamie Carragher doubles down on Mo Salah stance after Liverpool star's latest update"The thing with Konate is that he can have unbelievable games and he can have games where he looks like he’s not there," Riise told Footitalia.
"I think it’s unlikely he signs a new deal, so the club will already be looking for central defenders for the next two windows."If he signs on, I think they probably only need one more defender, but if he leaves, then I’d expect they’d move for two from whoever is on their shortlist."But for Konate, he knows Slot’s system, he knows the club and the team, so I would give him a new contract.Ibrahima Konate's future is uncertain(Image: Molly Darlington/Getty Images)"I still want one more CB joining the club so that there is competition to raise everyone’s level that little bit more."Liverpool have already backed out of their plans to go after Borussia Dortmund defender Nico Schlotterbeck, who was a potential January target. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.Sky Sports discounted Premier League and EFL packageThis article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it.