Liverpool's sigh of relief: Konate set to stay at Anfield
Reading Time: 2min | Tue. 21.04.26. | 18:04
After long-running and exhausting negotiations, the Frenchman is close to extending his deal with the Reds
Liverpool's troubles with centre-backs may not be diminished, but the Reds can breathe a sigh of relief, as Ibrahima Konate has allegedly agreed to extend his deal with the club.
Given that Giovanni Leoni, who was supposed to be Liverpool's future, tore his ACL on his debut, and that Joe Gomez is highly injury-prone, the Reds couldn't allow themselves to rely solely on Virgil van Dijk, especially considering the Dutchman's declining form.
Negotiations between the 20-time champions of England and Konate have been ongoing since October 2024. During that exhausting process, the 26-year-old was on Real Madrid's radar. At one point, he seemed extremely close to Santiago Bernabeu, but in the end, Liverpool won the battle for his signature.
"There are many things people have said but for a long time we have spoken with the club and we are close to an agreement."
🗣️ Ibrahima Konaté on his Liverpool future: "We are close to an agreement. For sure there is a big chance I’m here next season."
— Transfer News Live (@DeadlineDayLive) April 20, 2026
(Source: @BBCSport) pic.twitter.com/PLD8BfGFKs https://t.co/U6EfDTtVAM
"I think everyone wished for that for as soon as possible but we are in a good way. For sure, there is a big chance that I'm here next season. This is what I've always wanted," Konate said after the Reds' win in a Merseyside Derby via the BBC.
Either way, Liverpool will need a reinforcement in the defence, as their back line has shown numerous flaws throughout this season. If they fail to sign an adequate player, even the Frenchman's stay could be in vain.
PREMIER LEAGUE - MATCHDAY 34
Tuesday
22.00: (2.55) Brighton (3.95) Chelsea (2.60)
Wednesday
22.00: (2.10) Bournemouth (3.50) Leeds (3.80)
22.00: (16.0) Burnley (10.0) Man.City (1.12)
Friday
22.00: (2.80) Sunderland (3.15) Nott.Forest (2.65)
Saturday
14.30: (2.60) Fulham (3.35) Aston Villa (2.70)
17.00: (1.50) Liverpool (4.30) Crystal Palace (6.50)
17.00: (2.50) West Ham (3.35) Everton (2.85)
17.00: (4.60) Wolverhampton (3.60) Tottenham (1.80)
19.30: (1.50) Arsenal (4.30) Newcastle (6.50)
Monday
22.00: (1.90) Man.Utd. (3.60) Brentford (4.00)
***odds are subject to change***