Liverpool confident of DREAM centre-back signing

Liverpool are facing contract uncertainty over Ibrahima Konate.

The 26-year-old centre-back is out of contract at the end of the current season and if no deal is agreed then he will be leaving for free in summer 2026.

That of course would be a bitter blow for the Reds - who have invested lots of time and money into Konate since his £35m arrival from RB Leipzig back in 2021.

It was only last season when the Frenchman established himself as one of the best central defenders around - excelling in the heart of the Reds’ backline as Virgil van Dijk’s preferred partner.

Liverpool given new Konate hopes

Liverpool won the Premier League title under Arne Slot - with Konate growing in stature and reputation. But those performances caught the eye - inevitably - of Real Madrid.

As such the Bernabeu side are said to be preparing a free transfer offer for the stopper. Konate will be free to discuss a Bosman with any overseas clubs from January onwards and it’s not a secret that Madrid have got him in their sights.

But Liverpool have just been given renewed hope of securing Konate to a contract extension courtesy of a report coming in from Spanish media.

Madrid think the Reds are confident of Konate deal

Defensa Central is claiming that Liverpool are now “confident” of reaching an agreement with Konate over a new deal.

The report acknowledges that Konate remains in Madrid’s sights but also provides details of the 15-time European champions’ interest in Nottingham Forest’s Murillo.

Therefore the media in Spain may well be preparing the ground for disappointment over the Konate deal as they are forced to look elsewhere for defensive reinforcements.

Liverpool trying to renew

“The preferred and most realistic option is Ibrahima Konaté,” the report reads.

“But this is something that could change soon, as there are three months left before the player can negotiate directly with any club and even sign his next contract.

“Therefore, there is time for both parties to think things through and make a final decision.

"Meanwhile, Liverpool continues to try to renew their player's contract and is confident of achieving it, despite being aware of Real Madrid's interest.”

Konate staying would be a dream solution

Konate is currently earning a reported £140k per week on Merseyside with it being suggested he would need around £200k per week to renew.

In many ways Konate staying represents the dream solution for Hughes and Slot; a world-class performer who knows the club inside out.

Let's hope the club get success in the upcoming talks.

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