Key Takeaways
- Ibrahima Konate says talks over a new Liverpool deal are “almost done” and he expects to stay next season.
- The 26-year-old France defender claims he told sporting director Richard Hughes last year that his wish was always to remain at Anfield.
- Konate admits 2024-25 has been “below Liverpool standard” but vows to help the club fight for trophies again.
Ibrahima Konate has told Liverpool supporters they can “relax” about his future, revealing that a contract extension is “almost finished”.
Speaking after the 2-0 Merseyside derby win, the centre-back said negotiations have been positive for months and he never planned to move when his present terms expire in June.
“We have spoken with the club for a long time and we are close,” Konate explained. “I made it clear to Richard Hughes from the start that I want to stay. When the paperwork is ready, he can share what I told him back in September and everyone will understand.”
Konate, signed from RB Leipzig for £35 million in 2021, has made 113 Premier League appearances and lifted the league crown last year plus both domestic cups in 2022. This season will end without a trophy, yet Champions League football is firmly in sight.
“Finishing fourth is not enough for a club like Liverpool,” he warned. “We must use this hurt next season and come back stronger.”
The defender also opened up about personal pain. His father passed away in January, yet Konate cut short compassionate leave to help a back-line hit by injuries. “People don’t know everything I went through, but I sacrificed because this club means so much,” he said.
Supporters will hope the fresh terms are signed quickly, allowing Konate to focus fully on sealing a top-four spot and preparing for Arne Slot’s first campaign in charge.
