Report: Liverpool eye key centre-back upgrade amid Konate contract dilemma | OneFootball

Future of Liverpool’s Defence Under Review

Liverpool are assessing their central defensive options with growing urgency as Ibrahima Konate enters the final 12 months of his contract. While no decision has yet been made over the Frenchman’s long-term future, the situation is triggering wider discussions at Anfield about reshaping the back line ahead of the 2025/26 season.

Liverpool have already made notable moves in the summer window, signing Florian Wirtz from Bayer Leverkusen as their marquee addition, and reinforcing both full-back positions with Jeremie Frimpong and Milos Kerkez. With Jarell Quansah now sold to Leverkusen, central defence has become an area of increased focus.

One name under consideration is Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi. Well-regarded by Liverpool’s recruitment staff, the England international is admired not only for his defensive capabilities but for his profile, which closely aligns with the club’s long-term tactical blueprint.

Contract Deadlines Driving Decisions

Konate joined Liverpool from RB Leipzig in 2021 on a five-year deal. With no extension agreed as he enters his final year, Liverpool face a familiar dilemma: retain a player with uncertain commitment or sell while a transfer fee can still be recouped.

The club’s recent experience with players nearing contract expiry—most notably Virgil van Dijk, Mohamed Salah, and Trent Alexander-Arnold—highlights the risks of inaction. While Salah and Van Dijk signed new deals, Alexander-Arnold departed to Real Madrid for just £8.4m, well below market expectations.

In that context, Konate’s future must be evaluated quickly. Whether he chooses to stay or go, Liverpool are preparing for all scenarios—and Guehi’s availability presents a compelling option.

Guehi Viewed as Natural Fit

Crystal Palace face a similar predicament, with Guehi also entering the final year of his contract. That parallel has not gone unnoticed at Anfield. Former Liverpool forward Emile Heskey believes the timing and talent of the Palace centre-back make him a strong candidate to succeed or rotate with Konate.

“Guehi would be an upgrade,” Heskey said in a recent interview. “He brings composure and a strong ability to play out from the back. Pairing him with Van Dijk could be a brilliant fit.”

Heskey, while not ruling out Konate remaining at Liverpool, emphasised the importance of being proactive. “If Liverpool can get Guehi, I think they should move now. It’s a great chance to refresh that part of the pitch with a player who suits their style and is at the right age.”

Market Opportunity Could Prove Decisive

The reality of modern football finances means contract status often dictates recruitment. Guehi’s contractual situation could make him more affordable this summer, while Konate’s could pressure Liverpool into selling before the market closes.

As Heskey put it: “If Konate isn’t sure about his future, Liverpool have to act. They don’t get much wrong in the market, but this is one they’ll need to be clinical about. Either tie him down or take the chance to reshape the defence before value is lost.”

With Liverpool now Premier League champions again, the focus is on maintaining squad competitiveness across all fronts. Central defence looks likely to be the next area of evolution—whether that’s with Konate, Guehi, or both.