What Ibrahima Konate contract extension means for Liverpool summer plans

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Ibrahima Konate and his expected contract extension will have an impact on Liverpool’s summer plans according to reports. Image Credits: Imago ImagesAfter more than a year of uncertainty surrounding his future at Anfield, Ibrahima Konate now appears to be on the verge of ending the saga once and for all.The French centre-back, whose contract situation had become one of the most talked-about storylines at Liverpool this season, looks set to commit his long-term future to the Reds – and the ripple effect on Arne Slot’s summer transfer plans could be significant.Speaking after the Merseyside derby win, Konate gave the clearest indication yet that an agreement with Liverpool is close.

“We are close to an agreement,” the defender admitted.“I think everyone wished for that for as long as possible but we are in a good way.”“For sure there is a big chance I’m here next season. This is what I always wanted.

I’m waiting to sort the contract but when everything is sorted you will have to ask [sporting director] Richard Hughes what I said to him in September, November and he’s going to say something to make everyone quiet.”His comments will be music to the ears of supporters who feared a repeat of the drawn-out Trent Alexander-Arnold situation, and they also carry major implications for how Liverpool approach the window.According to Paul Joyce of The Times, provided no late complications arise in negotiations, Liverpool’s centre-back department will be considered fully stocked heading into next season. The Italian youngster, signed last summer with huge expectations attached, will effectively feel like a new signing himself.With Konate, Virgil van Dijk, Ibou Konate, Jacquet, and Leoni all available, Slot’s defensive options look in excellent shape, Ibrahima Konate