Liverpool are reportedly prepared to make a surprise call regarding the future of one of their important players.
Liverpool are gearing up for another hectic summer transfer window in 2026, building on the £400m-plus they spent the year before. A new centre-back remains a priority, and the club intends to bring one in regardless of whether Ibrahima Konate stays or leaves.
Konate’s situation has been the subject of intense speculation, with his contract set to expire at the end of the season. Although Liverpool have been negotiating a new deal and were frontrunners after Real Madrid cooled their interest in the Frenchman, there is still a strong possibility he will not be at Anfield next season.
Liverpool prepared to let Konate walk away for free
According to Football Insider, Mick Brown claims Liverpool are seriously considering allowing Konate’s contract to run down without offering an extension, meaning he would leave on a free transfer next summer.
“Real Madrid stepping back doesn’t guarantee he remains at Liverpool. I’ve heard the club have concerns about him, and those worries have grown due to his underwhelming displays this season. On his day he’s excellent, but he has that flaw where a lapse can cost the team,” Brown explained.
“Liverpool feel they can upgrade in that position, so they’re unsure about committing to a new deal, although it’s still an option. Even without Madrid, he won’t be short of interest if he becomes a free agent.
“It wasn’t a shock to me that Madrid walked away. They’ll have watched his performances and decided they need someone more consistent. Liverpool may be thinking the same, so there’s a very realistic chance he moves on—just not to the destination many expected.”
Should Liverpool meet Konate’s demands?
So far, Liverpool and Konate’s representatives have been unable to strike an agreement, with the defender seeking a major rise in wages. Given his form this season, it’s understandable that the club are hesitant to commit to another substantial contract.
