Liverpool remain optimistic about securing a new contract with Ibrahima Konate, whose current deal at Anfield is set to expire at the end of the season.
The 26-year-old French international has been linked with a move to Real Madrid, in a situation reminiscent of Trent Alexander-Arnold’s controversial exit, as clubs look to capitalise on his expiring contract.
A return to France has also been suggested, with Paris Saint-Germain reportedly interested in bolstering their defence under Luis Enrique, aiming to strengthen both their league and Champions League ambitions.
According to L’Equipe, Liverpool have tabled a fresh contract offer for Konate, and negotiations are ongoing.
Discussions reportedly resumed after being temporarily paused last season to allow the defender to focus on helping Liverpool secure the Premier League title.
This season, the pressure on Konate to remain fit has increased, given Liverpool’s limited defensive options, according to the Liverpool Echo.
The departure of Jarell Quansah left a gap that was temporarily filled by 19-year-old Giovanni Leoni, a promising talent from Parma.
However, the young defender has been sidelined for up to a year after suffering an anterior cruciate ligament injury on his Carabao Cup debut against Southampton.
Defensive depth was further strained following the last-minute collapse of Marc Guehi’s summer transfer, leaving Joe Gomez as the primary backup at centre-back.
Liverpool may look to midfielders Wataru Endo and Ryan Gravenberch to provide additional cover, but scrutiny of Konate’s performances has intensified this season, with some media outlets offering critical assessments.
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