Ibrahima konate is the last 12 months of his Liverpool contract. (Photos Recine/Getty Images)
Liverpool centre back Ibrahima Konaté found himself at a critical period in his career, and his future at Anfield is gaining attention.
The 26-year-old is interested in the final year of his contract, and his intentions remain unknown amid growing speculation from the European elite, especially Real Madrid.
The situation in Konate is formed in a surprising similarity to that of former Liverpool Talisman Trent Alexander Arnold, who came freely to Madrid earlier this year.
Real Madrid is not the only suitor to turn his eyes to Konate. Recent reports reveal that PSG and Barcelona are monitoring France International in hoping to snap him at zero cost next summer.
Fabrizio Romano warned the Merseyside club to be wary of Anfield’s Conate situation as the defender is more likely to leave the club than signing a new contract at Anfield.
On Konate Island to leave Liverpool next year?
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Romano said:
“So, there is still a conversation going on about a new deal between Liverpool, Conate and Liverpool, but there is no agreement at this stage.
“That’s not easy. That story really had many different moments. It was so close in October and November last year, so the contract extension was very close orally and there was a final clause.
“The game was then changed around December and January. New discussions and no contracts on the contract. We spent the last six, eight and nine months without agreement between the parties.
“What about Real Madrid? Conate is certainly on Real Madrid’s list. Certainly he is one of their favorite players, and certainly he is one of the players he wants to bring in in 2026.
“But this only happens if Conate doesn’t extend his contract with Liverpool.”
Conate follows Trent Alexander Arnold’s path
Losing him, Liverpool faces a defensive blank that they have to fill. Keep him and they hold top-class centre-backs.
With Konate likely to leave the club at this stage, Crystal Palace defender Mark Guech’s pursuit makes more sense now.
The coming months will reveal whether Konate will become the legendary where he stayed, or another valuable exit following the departure of Alexander Arnold.
It will be interesting to see how fans react to other players who may leave the club for free. They didn’t approve of Alexander Arnold’s departure and booed the defender.
Konate will likely receive the same treatment from his fans if he leaves the club and joins Real Madrid.
Just: Liverpool’s Open Contract Consultation amid Bayern Munich’s Interest