Liverpool have enjoyed their debut season with new coach Arne Slot, as they continue to impress in domestic and European competitions. However, what has been displayed behind the scenes has been nothing similar to their on-pitch performances. With Ibrahima Konate yet to ensure his long-term future in England, how likely is a move away from Merseyside?
Konate joined the Reds in the summer of 2021, transferring from German side RB Leipzig. Spending around four years with the German club, while impressing in both the Bundesliga and Champions League.
The French defender was of interest from several European clubs. However, the 19 Premier League winners scooped him up in the end.
Since then, he has made 119 appearances for Liverpool, winning two league cups in the process. In addition to an FA Cup in 2022.
Although Konate has been an integral part of the Liverpool side that has dominated the league so far. His future has been questioned as he is yet to sign a new contract for Liverpool.
As Paul Joyce reported, “Ibrahima Konate is yet to sign the new terms offered to him by Liverpool, with whispers growing about interest from PSG and Real Madrid.”
It appears that the Frenchman is one of a few players that has not determined his future with Liverpool. With the likes of Mohamed Salah, Trent Alexander Arnold and Virgil Van Dijk being the main players who have yet to sign new contracts.
How likely is Konate to leave?
Ibrahima Konate’s contract expires in the summer of 2026. Meaning that by the end of this season, he will have only one year left on his contract.
Therefore, the prospect of a departure for Konate is understandable. Especially when considering the fact that his form continues to improve week by week.
Although it does seem from the outside that he is enjoying his time with Liverpool so far. Becoming one of the main reasons for the team’s success lately.
The potential of the French defender to head to the French capital, whilst joining the best team in the country is tempting, to say the least.
As of this current moment, this deal may seem unlikely. However, as time passes by, and his future yet to be decided. His feeling of importance decreases too, which may open the gate for a possible transfer.
What Could Konate bring to his next club?
Although the French centre back has shown at times his issues with availability. As he has missed around 45 games for Liverpool since his arrival.
However, his on-the-pitch profile can be considered an asset for the majority of the teams around Europe.
On the ball, Konate has the ability to progress the ball into the thirds with either passing or dribbling between the lines. In addition to his outstanding aerial threat in both boxes both offensively and defensively.
His out-of-possession presence though is his biggest asset. As mentioned above, his aerial dominance in both boxes and in open play is priceless.
Which gives himself the ability to cover wide spaces when his team is in possession of the ball. Where we have seen Konate on multiple occasions cover the spaces that his right back leaves.
The mentioned elements above are of a potentially world-class player. For Liverpool, can become the man if a player of the calibre of Virgil Van Dijk departs.
As mentioned above, as of this current moment, this deal may not be very likely. However, if Liverpool continues to dismiss this situation, it will only lead to unrest on the player side.