Image Credits: Imago Images
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has provided clarity on Ibrahima Konate’s contract situation amid growing speculation over his future at Liverpool.
Reports in recent days have suggested the centre-back is close to signing a new deal at Anfield, but uncertainty still remains over his long-term future.
Konate’s situation is particularly important for Liverpool, who could otherwise be forced back into the market for another starting defender this summer, with Bournemouth’s Marcos Senesi among those linked.
Liverpool have already strengthened defensively in recent years, including the signing of Giovanni Leoni from Parma, although the Italian’s progress has been disrupted by a serious ACL injury shortly after joining.
Concerns over squad depth are further heightened by Virgil van Dijk entering the final year of his contract, while at 34, he is approaching the latter stages of his career.
The Reds are also planning for change at left-back, with Andy Robertson set to depart when his contract expires, and are expected to target a new left winger as well.
With uncertainty surrounding Arne Slot’s long-term future, Liverpool could face another busy summer, making Konate’s situation even more significant.
The 26-year-old has little over two months left on his current deal, leaving his future unresolved despite Real Madrid reportedly cooling their interest after a dip in form earlier in the season.
Romano has clarified that talks over a new contract are ongoing, but no final agreement has been reached. He said on his YouTube channel on Monday evening: “Let me clarify something. Last week, I told you guys that the deal is advancing to the final stages between Ibrahima Konate and Liverpool, but it’s not done yet.
“Done means agreed, signed, approved by lawyers on the club and player side, and that’s not the case yet. Why advanced? Because the numbers of the contract are almost okay when it’s about the salary.
“So the agreement on those numbers are quite okay. But there are some small details but still important to clarify between Konate and Liverpool, and those details are regarding some clauses in the contract.
“I’m not talking about release clauses. I’m talking about specific clauses that they are discussing. Clauses in the contract can be, for example, the bonuses linked to trophies and these sorts of things.
“So the guaranteed salary is almost okay, but there are some clauses to clarify. That’s why the new contract is still not signed. That’s the point. But advancing to important stages in recent weeks. So let’s wait for the outcome of these details before we know what’s going to happen with Ibrahima Konate.”
Konate has been ever-present at the heart of Liverpool’s defence alongside captain Virgil van Dijk this season, making 44 appearances in all competitions and scoring twice.
