Ibrahima Konate confirms next move as contract DEADLINE approaches | OneFootball

Liverpool have made a strong start to their Premier League title-defence - but the season threatens to be overshadowed by the Ibrahima Konate contract crisis.

Last term Arne Slot had to answer questions in practically every press conference around Trent Alexander-Arnold, Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk.

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And the same could happen this campaign regarding the 26-year-old. Konate has been at Liverpool since 2021 and has established himself as the preferred central defensive partner of Van Dijk.

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But with his current deal expiring in summer 2026 - the France international is well into the final 12 months of his time on Merseyside.

Konate tells Liverpool what he wants to do

That is unless Richard Hughes can get a renewal over the line for Konate - like he managed to do with Van Dijk and Salah last season.

The only contract renewal that FAILED was Alexander-Arnold’s - but it feels like no matter what Liverpool offered it wouldn’t have been enough.

Alexander-Arnold had his heart set on a move to Real Madrid - and the latest indications are that Konate is going to follow suit.

In fact a new report in the Spanish media claims the French stopper has INFORMED his club that he will not be signing a new deal and intends to join Madrid.

Konate agrees Madrid deal

“Liverpool's French centre-back has made the firm decision not to extend his contract with the Reds,” the report reads.

“The news has been met with considerable force at Anfield, where Ibrahima Konaté was considered a key part of their defensive system.

“His refusal to renew his contract has forced the English club to accept his departure.

“The 26-year-old defender is looking for a career breakthrough. “Ibrahima Konaté has already agreed to a move to Real Madrid, who will sign him as a free agent next summer.”

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All change in Liverpool's defence

Liverpool could do with looking closely at their centre-back options in the next couple of transfer windows. Van Dijk is 34 now and his contract will run out in 2027.

Joe Gomez meanwhile was considered a candidate for sale in the last two summer and he too could be leaving if the right bid is received. Elsewhere you have got Giovanni Leoni - an untested 18-year-old who signed from Parma for £26m in summer.

We could see Jarell Quansah back at the club in 2027 - with the Reds tipped to activate a buyback clause.

And Marc Guehi could be another candidate to arrive - once his contract with Crystal Palace expires in summer 2026.

First we need clarity on the Konate situation. Liverpool have got until January before the player is entitled to officially discuss a free transfer with any interested overseas teams.

The countdown is very much on.