Liverpool defender “wants a change of scenery” with contract up in 2026 – Journalist | OneFootball

Ibrahima Konaté Poised for Liverpool Exit Amid Contract Stand-Off

Contract Talks at a Standstill

Liverpool are staring down the barrel of another high-profile contract dilemma, this time involving French defender Ibrahima Konaté. As reported by Santi Aouna of Foot Mercato, the 25-year-old has yet to agree terms on a new deal, with his current contract set to expire in 2026. Despite proactive efforts by the club to secure his future, negotiations have hit a wall, fuelling speculation over a summer departure.

“According to our information,” Aouna writes, “Ibrahima Konaté wants a change of scenery next summer, at the end of his contract.” That bombshell will not sit well with Reds supporters, especially after the club’s previous struggles to keep hold of top talent. Liverpool feared a Trent Alexander-Arnold repeat—and it now seems their concern was justified.

Interest from European Giants

Konaté’s desire for a new challenge hasn’t gone unnoticed. As per Foot Mercato, “several clubs are already aware and on the lookout for a possible signing.” Among those monitoring the situation are Real Madrid, FC Barcelona, and Paris Saint-Germain. With Konaté’s Parisian roots, a return to the French capital could appeal, but sources close to the player suggest his preference lies with Real Madrid.

Photo: IMAGO

At 26, Konaté is entering his prime and has emerged as a leader for Didier Deschamps’ France. His reputation as a physical, intelligent defender with Champions League pedigree makes him an ideal target for Europe’s elite—especially if available on a free in 2026.

What Liverpool Stand to Lose

Konaté’s potential exit would represent more than just the loss of a player. Having formed a commanding partnership with Virgil van Dijk and played a central role in Liverpool’s 2025 Premier League title, his influence extends well beyond the pitch. He embodies the next generation of leaders at Anfield.

Aouna rightly notes, “Liverpool… could be kicking itself for this end of adventure that is slipping away from it.” The defender’s expected exit feels like another avoidable misstep in contract planning—something that has plagued the club in recent years.

Worrying Trend Continues

If Konaté does depart, he’ll join a growing list of Reds stars allowed to run down their contracts. The club must ask hard questions about succession planning and its ability to retain world-class talent in an increasingly aggressive transfer market.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

As a Liverpool supporter, this latest update on Konaté feels like déjà vu—and not the good kind. After the drawn-out saga with Alexander-Arnold, it’s frustrating to see yet another key figure drift towards the exit with little resistance.

Konaté has been nothing short of a rock at the back. His blend of pace, power, and composure gave fans hope that he would be Virgil van Dijk’s long-term successor. The idea of losing him on a free, just as he’s reaching his peak, is hard to stomach.

And what message does this send to the rest of the dressing room? If we can’t tie down a player of Konaté’s calibre—especially after a title-winning season—what does that say about our ambition?

The silence from the club is equally baffling. Why haven’t we seen a public push to secure his future? Are we waiting for 2026 to come knocking before realising what we’ve lost?

Liverpool’s recruitment has been lauded for its data-driven brilliance, but player retention is just as crucial. Losing Konaté would be a massive step backwards, both competitively and symbolically. This isn’t just about one player—it’s about protecting the identity and spine of the team.