Liverpool are facing a race against time to secure the future of Ibrahima Konaté. With the French international’s contract set to expire in June 2026, the Reds have reportedly scheduled a “pivotal” meeting with his representatives this Friday (6th) to break the current deadlock.
The Salary Standoff
Despite being a cornerstone of the Liverpool defence since his 2021 move from RB Leipzig, Konaté’s future at Anfield remains uncertain. According to Caught Offside, the 26-year-old recently rejected an extension offer that would have kept him at the club until 2030.
The sticking point remains the salary structure. Konaté’s camp is reportedly holding out for a deal that reflects his status as one of Europe’s elite centre-backs a valuation that Liverpool’s board has yet to match.
Real Madrid and PSG on High Alert
The lack of a breakthrough has put Europe’s biggest spenders on notice. Real Madrid and PSG are said to be monitoring the situation closely. With Konaté entering the final 18 months of his deal, he will soon be in a position to negotiate a pre-contract agreement with foreign clubs a scenario Liverpool are desperate to avoid.
Losing a player of Konaté’s calibre for a reduced fee, or worse, on a free transfer, would be a massive blow to the club’s sporting project.
Planning for the Future: The Jérémy Jacquet Factor
Liverpool’s management is already insulating the squad against potential defensive departures. The recent signing of Jérémy Jacquet from Rennes is a clear signal that the club is looking at long-term succession planning. However, keeping Konaté remains the priority for the 2026/27 campaign.
Friday’s meeting is expected to determine whether the Frenchman will commit his peak years to the Merseyside giants or if a high-profile exit is on the cards for the summer window.
Ronald Mike is a football writer covering the English Premier League, providing match analysis, tactical insight, and coverage of key rivalries and title races across the season.
