Ibrahima Konate has confirmed that Liverpool have offered him a new contract, ahead of the Reds’ crucial Champions League showdown with Lille on Tuesday. The French defender, who joined Anfield from RB Leipzig in 2021, has become a vital part of Arne Slot’s side, contributing immensely both in domestic and European competitions.
Currently in the final year of his existing deal, set to expire in 2026, Konate has made it clear that while an offer has been made, negotiations are far from final. The 25-year-old has made 112 appearances for Liverpool since his move, helping the Reds claim silverware, including two EFL Cups and the FA Cup during the 2021-22 season.
This season, Konate has been in sensational form, forming a rock-solid defensive partnership with Virgil van Dijk. Together, they have been instrumental in guiding Liverpool to the top of both the Premier League and the Champions League standings. In the Premier League this term, Konate has been crucial in aerial duels, winning 42—second only to Van Dijk—contributing to Liverpool’s league-low of 20 goals conceded.
Amid contract talks for key players like Van Dijk, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and Mohamed Salah, it seems Liverpool are engaged in conversations with more than just these stars. When asked about his own future, Konate hinted that his discussions with the club have not yet reached a resolution.
“Who talked about that a few months ago?” Konate said when queried about the status of his contract. “The club didn’t say anything, I didn’t say anything. It’s one person who said that. I was not ready, I didn’t know when he said that. But after that, I spoke with the club. I think I am really focused on what is happening now. We will see what will happen.”
“Yes (I have been offered a deal). This is another conversation (whether I am close to signing).”
Konate also opened up about his recent return to the starting line-up after a lengthy absence in December due to a knee injury sustained against Real Madrid in the Champions League. The injury had kept him sidelined for the better part of a month, but he made his return for Liverpool’s 2-2 draw with Manchester United in the Premier League. However, he admitted he is still battling through pain, having rushed his comeback too soon.
“I tried to come back 100%, but I’m not because I rushed my comeback with my knee,” Konate explained. “I’ve done this for my team. I can die for this team, it is fine. My knee will come back 100% soon, it’s fine. I still have pain. I play with painkillers and that is enough for me to play.”
Despite feeling the effects of the injury, Konate has shown remarkable resilience, playing through discomfort for the sake of the team’s ambitions. He went on to explain how his desire to return sooner was fueled by the injury to Joe Gomez.
“I was very close to coming back anyway,” he said. “My plan was to train that week, but when I saw Joe [Gomez] with his injury I was like: ‘Okay, I have to come back quicker.’ For sure, the first game I felt my knee a little bit, but it gets better day after day. The physios and the medical staff have done a great job for me.”
Konate’s commitment to the cause has not gone unnoticed, and his performances in the heart of Liverpool’s defense have made him an invaluable asset. With his contract situation still to be resolved, the club will undoubtedly be keen to secure the services of a player whose contributions both on and off the pitch have been crucial to their success this season.
