Anfield Index
·16. Februar 2026
“There’s a chance” – Journalist provides positive update on Liverpool star’s future

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Yahoo sportsAnfield Index
·16. Februar 2026

Contract situations often shape the mood around a club, and the latest comments surrounding Ibrahima Konate have given Liverpool supporters something to think about. With just four months remaining on his current deal at Anfield, uncertainty has hovered over the defender’s future. However, speaking to Dave Davis on Anfield Index’s Media Matters podcast, David Lynch shared an update that points towards cautious optimism.
Lynch revealed, “I had a conversation last week that encouraged me from the player’s side of things and that they are still having discussions, so it’s not completely dead.” That insight suggests negotiations remain alive behind the scenes, even as speculation grows about potential interest from elsewhere. In a season where Arne Slot faces pressure following a disappointing title defence that has left Liverpool sixth in the Premier League, clarity around key players has become increasingly important.
One of the most interesting elements of Lynch’s update relates to Konate’s mindset. Contract stand offs often feel inevitable once talks stall, yet this situation appears more fluid. As Lynch explained, “That’s not to say that there’s definitely going to be a positive outcome, but I don’t get the impression that he has got somewhere in his head that he wants to go and he has no interest in extending at Liverpool.”
That distinction matters. Liverpool’s defensive structure has already faced scrutiny this season, and losing a centre back of Konate’s profile would create further challenges for Slot as he balances domestic recovery with Champions League ambitions and a push for FA Cup success. The Frenchman’s physical presence and recovery pace suit the manager’s tactical approach, particularly when Liverpool look to defend higher up the pitch.
Supporters may remember how quickly narratives can shift during contract negotiations. A few weeks ago, the mood around Konate’s future felt pessimistic. Now, the tone has softened, even if uncertainty remains.

Photo: IMAGO
Lynch’s assessment reflects the delicate nature of negotiations at elite clubs. He stated, “I think there’s a chance. Whether that chance turns into anything is yet to be seen.” That measured perspective aligns with the broader feeling around Liverpool right now. There are signs of progress on the pitch, including improved performances in recent cup fixtures, yet nothing feels guaranteed.
Slot’s project depends heavily on stability within the squad. After delivering a Premier League title in his first season, expectations remain high despite the uneven league campaign this year. Retaining key players could play a major role in easing pressure on the manager, particularly as Liverpool attempt to rebuild momentum across competitions.
Lynch admitted that his own outlook has shifted in recent days, saying, “I’ve gone from thinking that there is no chance, to now thinking there’s a chance because of that conversation I had.” That evolution mirrors the wider conversation among supporters who are watching developments closely without jumping to conclusions.
Patience may be required as negotiations continue, and Lynch acknowledged that improvement in the situation has been gradual rather than dramatic. He concluded, “I’m more encouraged than I was a couple of weeks ago, that’s for sure.” For Liverpool, even a small increase in optimism feels significant given the uncertainty surrounding several areas of the squad.
As the season moves towards its decisive stages, contract clarity could become a defining factor in how fans judge the club’s direction under Slot. The Reds remain active in Europe and the FA Cup, and performances have begun to show glimpses of cohesion again. Securing Konate’s long term future would send a strong signal that Liverpool are planning stability alongside their ongoing rebuild.









































