Update On Manchester City And Their Pursuit Of This Liverpool Defender: What Should Pep Do? | OneFootball

In a recent report, journalist Graeme Bailey offered an update on Manchester City and their pursuit of Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate. It is believed that the Reds are on the verge of extending the French centre-back’s contract amid interest from the Mancunian club as well as Chelsea, Real Madrid, Barcelona, Bayern Munich and Inter Milan.

Konate is having an inconsistent campaign at the Mancunian club, but has put in a string of impressive displays for them on the defensive end of the field. The French talent has featured in 42 matches for Man City this season, scoring two goals across multiple competitions.

The 26-year-old is currently among the best centre-backs in the Premier League despite not having his best campaign at Liverpool so far. Still, Man City should focus on luring him to the Etihad Stadium this summer.

His current contract at the Merseyside club will run out at the end of this campaign, which could give the Mancunian giants a chance to sign him on a free transfer later this year.

LONDON, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 20: Ibrahima Konate of Liverpool during the Premier League match between Tottenham Hotspur and Liverpool at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on December 20, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)

What Should Manchester City Boss Pep Guardiola Do With Regards To Konate?

Konate is a solid tackler of the ball and can read the danger well to secure possession back for his team inside his half. He doesn’t mind putting his foot through the ball when required and can play his way out from the back.

Standing at 1.94m, the French talent can use his strong frame to dominate the opposition attackers in the air. He is already quite familiar with the Premier League and won’t take much time to adjust to life in the Premier League if Man City manage to snap him up this summer.

We can expect Konate to add more bite and steel to Pep Guardiola’s defence. He is more than capable of nailing down a regular first-team spot at the Etihad Stadium next season.

At 26, Konate is about to enter his prime and knows what it takes to win at the highest level. Therefore, Guardiola would be wise to step up his efforts to acquire his services even if Liverpool end up tying him down to a new contract as he would help Man City compete for some major honours in the coming seasons.