Liverpool could be bracing for the departure of Ibrahima Konaté, with the French defender entering the final year of his contract and no agreement on an extension in sight.
Reports from Spain and France suggest that his exit from Anfield is now a real possibility, with European giants circling.
Real Madrid move ‘well advanced’
According to MARCA journalist José Félix Díaz, Konaté has already rejected three contract offers from Liverpool, and negotiations over fresh terms have stalled.
His move to Real Madrid for next summer is reportedly “well advanced,” with Los Blancos keen to reinforce their backline.
Meanwhile, PSG are also closely monitoring the situation, viewing the 25-year-old as a natural addition to their defensive ranks, while Barcelona have also been linked after being offered the player by intermediaries.
Liverpool line up Marc Guéhi as successor
With Konaté’s exit now a growing likelihood, Liverpool are preparing for life without him. The Telegraph’s Chris Bascombe reports that the Reds have made Crystal Palace defender Marc Guéhi their priority target.
While Liverpool will not pay a fee in January, they intend to secure Guéhi on a free transfer next summer.
Talks with the England international are already at an advanced stage, with the defender understood to favour a long-term future at Anfield. This makes Guéhi the likely heir to Konaté’s place in the squad should the Frenchman leave.
A crucial decision for Liverpool
Konaté’s potential exit would mark a significant shift in Liverpool’s defensive structure, as he has been seen as a cornerstone for the future alongside Virgil van Dijk.
However, with contract negotiations breaking down and Madrid’s interest intensifying, Liverpool appear to be planning a seamless transition rather than risk losing him without a replacement lined up.
The coming months will be decisive, but as things stand, the Frenchman’s time at Anfield looks to be drawing to a close, with Real Madrid increasingly confident of securing his signature.
About the Author
