News Focus
- Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konaté will depart Anfield when his current contract expires at the end of the season
- Saudi Pro League club Al-Ittihad have identified the French centre-back as a priority target to strengthen their defence
- Negotiations for a new deal at Liverpool have stalled, with the 27-year-old informing teammates of his decision to leave
- The Jeddah-based outfit faces internal instability that could complicate their pursuit of the former RB Leipzig star
Saudi Pro League outfit Al-Ittihad are preparing a move to secure the signature of Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konaté. The 27-year-old French international is set to leave the Premier League club as a free agent when his five-year agreement expires this summer.
Konaté originally joined the Reds in 2021 from RB Leipzig. However, recent discussions regarding an extension have collapsed. Sources indicate that the centre-back has already told his fellow players that he will not remain on Merseyside beyond the current campaign.
The France international is expected to draw significant interest from top European sides due to his vast experience and availability without a transfer fee. Despite this competition, Al-Ittihad have emerged as serious contenders for his services.
The Jeddah-based team ended the previous season in fifth position in the Saudi Pro League table. They now view the acquisition of Konaté as a crucial step to reinforce their backline ahead of the next term.
However, the Saudi club faces challenges in their recruitment drive. Manager Sergio Conceição is reportedly seeking to leave his post, while the anticipated appointment of Ramon Planes as Sporting Director creates further instability. These factors may weaken their ability to convince the defender to choose the Middle East over European alternatives.