Liverpool centre-back Ibrahima Konate has revealed that he is on the brink of finalising a new contract with the Premier League side, with his current agreement set to run out at the end of the season.
The 26-year-old French international, who made the move from RB Leipzig to Liverpool in 2021 for a fee of £36 million (approximately $49 million), has been the subject of speculation linking him to Spanish powerhouses Real Madrid.
Konate has played a pivotal role in Arne Slot’s squad, establishing a strong defensive partnership alongside captain Virgil van Dijk. Throughout his tenure at Anfield, he has clinched the Premier League title, two League Cups, and the FA Cup, in addition to finishing as a runner-up in the Champions League.
“There have been a lot of things said, but we’ve been in discussions with the club for a while now and we’re close to reaching an agreement,” Konate stated to journalists following Liverpool’s dramatic 2-1 victory over Everton on Sunday.
“I believe everyone hopes this can be resolved as quickly as possible, and things are looking promising.”
“There’s definitely a strong possibility of me being here next season. That’s what I’ve always desired.”
“I’m just waiting for the contract to be finalised, but once everything’s settled, you might want to ask Richard Hughes (Liverpool’s sporting director) about what I told him in September and November, before all the chatter started. He’ll have something to say to keep everyone calm.”
This season appears set to conclude without any silverware for the defender, as Liverpool has been knocked out of the Champions League, FA Cup, and League Cup, and currently sits fifth in the Premier League with five matches left to play.
“This has been a disappointing season by Liverpool’s standards. Finishing in the top four wouldn’t make us happy, that’s for sure,” Konate remarked. “This club is truly remarkable, and it feels like a family. It means so much to me.”
Compiled by SportArena.au
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