“‘Very soon…’ – Ibrahima Konaté hints that a contract decision is nearing as negotiations with Liverpool remain ongoing.”
Ibrahima Konaté has moved to cool claims that Liverpool have already put a new contract on the table, though the defender says he expects to reveal a decision on his future “very soon”.
The 26-year-old is entering the final eight months of his current deal at Anfield, and links to Real Madrid continue to circulate, with the possibility of being able to agree a pre-contract with foreign clubs from January.
Recent reports (via CaughtOffside) suggested Liverpool had issued a “take-it-or-leave-it” proposal, but Konaté has now dismissed those stories as inaccurate.
Konaté clarifies his Liverpool contract situation
Speaking to the media while on France duty, the centre-back provided an update on where things stand with negotiations.
He said (via Sky Sports News, translated):
“I’ve seen a lot of things in the media. I heard that Liverpool made me a new offer recently. I don’t know where that came from. My agents are still in discussions with the club. I hope to make my decision and announce what I’ll do very soon.”
Positive signs from the French defender
Konaté’s tone is far more reassuring than Mo Salah’s comments a year ago, when the Egyptian admitted he was “more out than in” before eventually signing a new deal in April.
Andy Robertson has also spoken about his own contract situation this week, saying he feels “relaxed” about his future and isn’t giving anything away regarding his plans beyond next summer.
Despite having come under fire for some errors this season, Konaté remains a vital part of Liverpool’s defensive unit. With Giovanni Leoni sidelined long-term, the club cannot afford to lose another centre-back.
From his public comments at least, the Frenchman appears keen to extend his stay at Anfield and spend his peak years on Merseyside, potentially becoming the leader of Liverpool’s back line once Virgil van Dijk eventually moves on.
Liverpool will hope for a swift resolution so that distractions fade and Konaté can focus fully on helping the team, knowing his future remains at Anfield.
