Liverpool line up £70m COLOSSUS to replace Ibrahima Konate

Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate has reportedly decided to quit the club. Out of contract in 2026, the Frenchman is thought to fancy a change of scenery, with Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain and Barcelona all keen on landing him.

That’s according to a new report from Foot Mercato, which claims the 26-year-old wants to see out his deal and leave on a free next year.

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This will be frustrating news for the Reds, with Konate finally establishing himself at the heart of the defence. But they have been unable to make a contract breakthrough with Konate’s camp over the past few months.

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A renewal would cost Liverpool around £200k per week but now it appears that the France international’s mind is made up. As such the club are on the hunt for a new starting centre-back.

Liverpool looking at Guehi and Branthwaite

The imminent loss of Jarell Quansah to Bayer Leverkusen in a £30m deal already leaves the club light on numbers - necessitating a new signing sooner rather than later.

While Marc Guehi has been the player most strongly linked, there is another defender closer to home who fits the bill.

The Reds reportedly have their eye on centre-backs aged 24 or under - and given they are losing Quansah - one with homegrown status would help.

That’s why Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite is so intriguing. Moving from the Bramley Moore Dock Stadium to Anfield wouldn’t be without its controversy - but surely a sizeable bid from the Reds would tempt their city neighbours into selling.

Everton plot Branthwaite talks

A new report in Caught Offside now claims that Chelsea, Manchester United, Tottenham AND Liverpool have all got their eye on Branthwaite - who is valued at around the £70m mark.

As such, the Toffees are planning contract talks with their star defender - who is currently tied to the club until 2027. But should no new deal be agreed for the 23-year-old, then Liverpool would be in a good position to pounce.

“No concrete talks have taken place,” the report continues. “But the admiration for Branthwaite is there, so it could be one to watch.”

Could Liverpool use Doak to sign Branthwaite?

David Moyes’ side are reported to admire Ben Doak and by adding the Scotland winger to any potential deal, Liverpool could significantly reduce the upfront costs.

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With Quansah being sold, Konate seemingly heading out the door and Van Dijk contracted until 2027 - Liverpool will soon need to conduct a serious transfer overhaul at centre-back.

Maybe Guehi and fellow England international Branthwaite will be the ones leading the club into the new era.