Transfer guru Fabrizio Romano has given a major update on Ibrahima Konate’s future, confirming that Liverpool have submitted a contract proposal for the France defender.
With his current contract set to expire next summer, the centre-back is currently at a crossroads in his career, having to choose between committing his long-term future to Anfield or embracing a “new chapter” amid strong interest from European giants Real Madrid.
The ball is firmly in Konate’s court as Liverpool anxiously await his final answer.
Liverpool await response from Ibrahima Konate after offering new contract
According to Romano, negotiations are still “ongoing” between the club and Konate’s representatives.
Liverpool have made it clear they want to implement their proposal and keep their ‘world-class’ talent on Merseyside.
Romano stressed that Liverpool are doing everything in their power and are waiting for Konate to decide on the next step in his career, taking into account all “several factors” involved.
Romano said on his YouTube channel:
“Negotiations are still ongoing between Liverpool and Ibrahima Konate. As we have said in recent months, Konate needs to decide what he wants to do.
“He has several opportunities around Europe. There are negotiations with Real Madrid, but also with Liverpool, so Konate also has to make a decision.”
“Liverpool made an offer to Konate and now Konate has to decide: “Okay, I want to stay and sign a new contract” or “No, I want to leave and start a new chapter.”
“So Liverpool are waiting for a response from Ibou Konate, there are talks, there are negotiations going on.
“Liverpool have made a move in this matter, so now it’s up to Konate what he wants to do. It’s partly economic, but also personal whether he wants to take on a new chapter. So there are some factors to consider.”
“However, Liverpool have decided to move him and now it is up to Konate to decide on the next step in his career.”
Liverpool could rush to move Marc Gehi if Konate rejects new contract
The contract dispute has a significant impact on Liverpool’s transfer strategy.
If Konate decides to leave, potentially joining a European club on a free transfer next summer, the Reds will be forced to accelerate plans to secure a replacement.
Konate may be able to sign a pre-contract with an overseas club from January 1, and the club is reportedly stepping up efforts to sign Gehi in the upcoming winter transfer window.
According to the latest update from Spanish journalist Bruno Alemany, Liverpool are “all set” to sign Gehi.
This shows the Reds are prepared to go all out to sign the Crystal Palace star in January, rather than waiting until the summer when competition for free agents will be fierce.
With Konate’s future uncertain and speculation intensifying, Liverpool are prepared for any outcome, but their next move depends entirely on the Frenchman.
