Liverpool ‘Still in Talks’ to Agree Deal for £35m Defender – Journalist | OneFootball

Liverpool in Holding Pattern Over Konate Contract: No Panic Yet, But Pressure Rising

Liverpool may still tie down Ibrahima Konate to a new contract, but recent updates from reliable sources paint a picture of delay rather than decisive action. As revealed by journalist David Lynch speaking to Sports Mole, negotiations with the French defender have stalled and no agreement is currently in sight.

“Real Madrid are clearly interested – there’s no question about that,” Lynch confirmed, before offering some optimism. “But speaking to people close to Konate, the feeling remains that his priority is still to renew with Liverpool.”

Despite entering the final year of his contract, Konate reportedly remains open to extending his stay at Anfield. However, with no progress in talks and top European clubs like Real Madrid, PSG and Barcelona monitoring the situation, Liverpool risk walking into another avoidable contract saga.

Comparisons to Trent Departure Loom Large

Fears are mounting over a repeat of the Trent Alexander-Arnold departure, which saw Liverpool lose a homegrown star to Madrid for just £10 million. That transfer, still raw for many Reds fans, casts a long shadow over Konate’s situation.

Lynch notes that, despite claims Konate has requested a 40% wage increase and hinted at leaving in 2026, the player “hasn’t made up his mind.” He explained, “There have been talks, but they’ve stalled and aren’t really progressing at the moment, which is unfortunate. That said, I don’t get the sense that it’s reached a point of no return.”

Konate’s Importance in Arne Slot’s Title-Winning Side

Konate was instrumental in Liverpool’s Premier League-winning campaign under Arne Slot last season. His performances alongside Virgil van Dijk, since his £35m arrival in 2021, have been central to the club’s defensive strength, as the new manager brought silverware back to Merseyside in his debut season.

Photo: IMAGO

Given his importance, allowing Konate to walk for free or forcing a sale under pressure next year would be a significant setback. Lynch put it plainly: “Liverpool will need to present a contract offer that’s attractive to him – and as of now, that hasn’t happened.”

Succession Planning Already in Motion?

While Liverpool fans may not want to imagine life without Konate, contingency plans seem to be forming behind the scenes. Lynch noted the club’s interest in Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi as a potential replacement if an exit becomes unavoidable.

“If you’re already selling and bringing in a number of players, there’s no guarantee it will all click,” Lynch said, stressing the risks of overhauling too many parts of the defensive line. “Liverpool have already changed both full-backs – you’d rather not be forced into switching a centre-back as well.”

Still, the hope remains that Konate will stay focused and professional as the season begins. “Hopefully, Konate won’t let it get to that stage… even if things don’t end with a new deal,” Lynch concluded.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

Liverpool fans should take a measured but hopeful approach to the Ibrahima Konate situation. While reports of stalled talks are never ideal, the fact that Konate’s priority is still to renew with Liverpool is encouraging. After the Trent exit, supporters are understandably cautious, but the club’s handling of contract situations under Michael Edwards 2.0 has generally been sharp.

Konate is one of the best centre-backs in Europe. At 26, he’s entering his peak and has already shown he can lead from the back. His chemistry with Van Dijk was key to the title win last season, and with Arne Slot now preparing for a Champions League return, keeping Konate could be vital.

If Konate feels undervalued, Liverpool need to respond quickly. A 40% wage rise sounds hefty, but in the current market, it’s often the cost of keeping elite-level talent. Losing him would not only weaken the squad but also risk unsettling the dressing room ahead of a huge season.

Fans will hope the club act decisively, offering Konate terms that reflect his value, leadership and future potential. There’s still time to get it right — and there’s every reason to believe they will.