Deal closer for Liverpool after "important" claim made by Fabrizio Romano | OneFootball

Ibrahima Konate is reportedly now expected to stay at Liverpool, with a new contract increasingly considered more likely than a summer exit.

The France international is coming towards the end of his current deal, making him a free agent this summer, which has led to plenty of speculation over his future in recent months.

However, it now looks like things are heading in a more positive direction, according to L’Equipe, who report that Konate has never been closer to staying at LFC than he looks now.

This follows Fabrizio Romano reporting for us last week that talks were ongoing over a new contract for Konate, who is open to staying at Anfield.

Ibrahima Konate could be staying at Liverpool after all

With Virgil van Dijk looking past his best at times this season, it’s surely vital for Liverpool to keep Konate as a key figure in their defence.

If the 26-year-old were to leave this summer, it would likely mean the Reds would have to enter the market for two new central defenders.

There are increasingly positive noises about Konate’s future now, though, with the Athletic also reporting that an Anfield stay could be the most likely outcome now.

What Fabrizio Romano told us about Ibrahima Konate

“There are discussions ongoing with the French defender. At the moment there’s still nothing done or agreed, but the conversations are still underway.”

He added: “Let’s see if they can find a financial agreement … The player is open to continuing at Liverpool, but obviously it’s an important contract for his career.”

Romano also mentioned that Real Madrid had cooled their interest in Konate.