Ibrahima Konate set to leave Liverpool after contract negotiations collapse

Liverpool are reportedly preparing for life without Ibrahima Konate after failing to reach an agreement with the defender over a new contract.

The France international’s current deal is due to expire this summer, and negotiations over an extension have not produced a breakthrough, leaving him on course to leave Anfield as a free agent.

Konate has been a key figure for Liverpool since arriving from RB Leipzig in 2021, and his departure would represent a significant blow for manager Arne Slot ahead of next season.

The 27-year-old has made 183 appearances for Liverpool across all competitions and played an important role in the club’s recent successes.

Konate helped Liverpool win the Premier League title, FA Cup and two League Cups while establishing himself as one of the leading defenders in English football.

There had been optimism earlier this year that an agreement could be reached after Konate publicly expressed his desire to remain at the club.

However, talks have stalled, and the Frenchman is now expected to seek a new challenge elsewhere.

Several clubs have been linked with the defender over the past year, although no final decision has yet been made regarding his next destination.

Konate’s departure would leave Liverpool facing further questions about their defence this summer despite recent investment in the position.

The Reds are already preparing for the arrival of highly-rated defender Jeremy Jacquet from Rennes, while young centre-back Geovanni Leoni is expected to return after recovering from a long-term knee injury.

Veteran captain Virgil van Dijk remains a central figure in Liverpool’s defence, but Joe Gomez is also entering the final year of his contract.

The situation means Liverpool could yet be forced back into the market for another central defender before the transfer window closes.