Ibrahima Konate has indicated that progress has been made in discussions over a fresh agreement with Liverpool FC, stating that both sides are close to finalizing terms. The centre-back suggested there is a strong likelihood he will still be part of the squad next season.
Ibrahima Konate has indicated that progress has been made in discussions over a fresh agreement with Liverpool FC, stating that both sides are close to finalizing terms. The centre-back suggested there is a strong likelihood he will still be part of the squad next season.
His current contract is due to expire this summer, five years after arriving from RB Leipzig in a £35 million move. Despite outside speculation, the 26-year-old emphasized that he has always intended to remain with the club.
Speaking after the Merseyside derby victory, Konate explained that talks with the club have been ongoing for some time and are now heading in a positive direction, with all parties hoping for a swift conclusion.
Addressing why the situation has continued into April, Konate compared it to previous contract discussions involving teammates such as Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah, noting that similar delays had occurred before. He suggested this may reflect the club’s usual approach to such matters.
Since joining Liverpool, Konate has played 113 Premier League matches, contributing to a league title last season as well as FA Cup and EFL Cup victories in 2022. This campaign, however, has not delivered trophies, although the team is in a strong position to secure Champions League qualification.
Currently sitting fifth, Liverpool hold a seven-point advantage over sixth-placed Chelsea. Despite this, Konate admitted that finishing in the top four alone would not meet the club’s expectations.
The season has also been difficult on a personal level for Konate, following the death of his father in France in January. After taking compassionate leave, he offered to return earlier than planned due to defensive injuries within the squad.
He acknowledged that various circumstances have affected his performances, adding that a full understanding of his situation would provide context to the sacrifices he has made for the team. Nevertheless, his focus remains on helping Liverpool finish the season strongly.
Konate described the club as deeply important to him, referring to it as both a special institution and a close-knit environment. He also reflected on how the experiences of this season, both challenging and meaningful, will form a significant part of his personal story.
