Fabrizio Romano Reveals Liverpool’s Stance on Ibou Konate’s Future | OneFootball

Liverpool’s Konate Conundrum: Contract Talks Heat Up Amid Madrid Interest

Liverpool are not just making moves in the transfer market, they are also trying to hold onto one of their most prized assets. As reported by renowned transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano, the Reds are continuing negotiations with Ibrahima Konate over a new contract, amid significant interest from Real Madrid.

Romano revealed: “I can tell you guys that they [Liverpool] are still not opening the doors for this summer for Ibrahima Konate to go to Real Madrid.” That much is clear. The club are actively trying to secure the 26-year-old’s future, even while on pre-season duty in Hong Kong.

The French international has become a key figure under Arne Slot, especially after a title-winning debut campaign for the Dutch manager.

Real Madrid’s Silent Pressure

Despite no formal bid being submitted, the threat from Real Madrid feels real. Romano added: “Real Madrid really like the player, he’s really appreciated internally… but at the moment there is no bid to Liverpool because they are not opening the doors to an exit.”

This is a familiar tactic from Madrid. They often apply indirect pressure before launching formal moves, particularly when a player is nearing the final stages of their contract. With Konate’s deal set to expire next year, Liverpool’s urgency is understandable.

Back in late 2024, talks between Liverpool and Konate’s representatives seemed promising. Romano recalls: “They were close around October, November, then the story changed with Konate and his agents.” Now the mood has shifted again, with Liverpool reportedly making a fresh offer on “better terms” according to French outlet Footmercato.

Key Timing Ahead of New Campaign

The timing of this latest development is vital. With the Premier League season just weeks away, Liverpool want clarity — and ideally commitment — from Konate.

His importance cannot be overstated. As one of the few senior centre-backs available, especially one with Premier League, Champions League and international experience, losing him on a free would be a significant blow to Liverpool’s squad building.

For now, “Liverpool still hope to try and reach an agreement with Konate in the next months,” said Romano. But if the player refuses to commit soon, the club may face a tough decision: sell now or risk losing him for nothing next summer.

Ekitike Link Adds More Context

In a curious subplot, Konate’s French teammate Hugo Ekitike has just joined Liverpool from Eintracht Frankfurt. The 22-year-old forward is expected to settle in quickly and will lean on Konate to help him acclimate.

Keeping Konate may not just be a footballing decision, but also one that supports broader squad harmony. His influence in the dressing room and ability to help integrate new players like Ekitike only adds weight to Liverpool’s efforts to retain him.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

As Liverpool supporters, we’re hopeful this all points to the club doubling down on keeping Konate long-term. His injury record has raised eyebrows in the past, but when fit, he’s a dominant force — pace, power, technical quality, and a natural leader emerging with every season.

Letting him leave, especially to Real Madrid, would feel like a step backward. We’ve already seen murmurs around Trent Alexander-Arnold being a long-term target for them, and the idea of another key player heading to the Bernabeu is a troubling prospect.

With Arne Slot already proving himself by winning the Premier League in his first season, the next evolution of this team must be about continuity and commitment. Players like Konate should form the spine of the squad moving forward. Rewarding him with a contract that reflects his value would send a clear message about Liverpool’s ambitions.

There’s still time, but these next few weeks will be pivotal. If the offer is fair, we believe Konate will stay. Let’s hope the club’s persistence pays off — because losing him now would be both avoidable and unnecessary.