Liverpool face a growing dilemma over Ibrahima Konate’s future, with Teamtalk reporting that the centre-back is still far from agreeing a new contract at Anfield.
The 26-year-old Frenchman, whose contract expires in 2026, believes he deserves to be one of the highest-paid defenders in the Premier League, and his stance has caused a major rift in negotiations.
Konate has established himself as one of Liverpool’s most effective defenders when he is in good form, but a series of injuries have hampered his consistency.
Nevertheless, the former RB Leipzig star feels his performances, profile and importance to the team warrant a salary package comparable to that of the league’s highest-paid centre-backs.
Liverpool have no intention of giving Konate a big contract
However, Liverpool are reluctant to sign big contracts under their evolving financial structure.
Teamtalk further claims that Liverpool already have Tottenham Hotspur’s lightning-fast Dutch centre-back Micky van de Ven in mind as a replacement should Konate eventually leave.
Van de Ven, 24, has been one of Spurs’ standout performers since joining from Wolfsburg in 2023.
The Dutch international is highly praised for his recovery pace, intellectual approach and ability to defend wide spaces, and is a perfect fit in Liverpool’s favored high defensive line.
Reds set to compete with Real Madrid for Spurs star
However, signing him would require a huge transfer fee, so Tottenham are unlikely to consider negotiating unless they face an unusual bid.
Spurs value Van de Ven as one of their marquee players, especially considering his long-term contract until 2029.
Adding to the intrigue, Real Madrid are also monitoring Van de Ven’s situation. The Spanish giants are preparing for a long-term reinforcement at centre-back.
Madrid scouts have been keeping an eye on the Dutchman since his time at Wolfsburg and see him as a strong candidate for the next part of their defensive rebuild.
Source: Liverpool prepare concrete bid of 100 million euros for sensation they want to play for
