Konate says he is close to signing new Liverpool deal

Ibrahima Konate made the move to Liverpool from RB Leipzig in 2021. The France centre-back has expressed optimism about his future with the club, stating he is “close to an agreement” on a new contract and believes there’s a “big chance” he’ll stay at Anfield next season. His current deal runs out this summer, five years after he joined from Leipzig for £35m.

Team unity and new opportunities

Speaking following Liverpool’s Merseyside derby win on Sunday, the 26-year-old emphasized that his future has never been uncertain. He hinted that he shared his intent to remain with the club early on with sporting director Richard Hughes, who has been central to negotiations. “There are many things people have said, but for a long time we have spoken with the club and are close to an agreement,” Konate explained. “I think everyone wished for that as soon as possible, but we are in a good way.”

“For sure, there is a big chance I’m here next season. This is what I’ve always wanted. I’m waiting to sort the contract, but when everything is sorted, you will have to ask Richard what I said to him in September, November before everyone talked about everything. He’s going to say something to make everyone quiet. When he’s going to reply, you will see. I just wish that.”

Konate acknowledged the delay in finalizing his deal, citing similar situations with teammates Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah last season as a precedent. He suggested the process is “exactly the same” and “this is maybe how the club want it.” The defender has made 113 Premier League appearances since joining the Reds, contributing to their league title last season and FA Cup and EFL Cup victories in 2022.

Liverpool will conclude the campaign without silverware, yet they are positioned to secure Champions League qualification. They currently sit fifth in the league, seven points ahead of sixth-placed Chelsea. “It’s been a bad season for the standards of Liverpool. If we finish in the top four, we won’t be happy, for sure,” Konate remarked. “With this kind of season, we have to give our all next season to make something good. This club means so much to me.”

Personal trials and renewed focus

Konate has faced personal challenges this season. His father passed away in France in January, prompting him to take compassionate leave. However, he opted to return early to support the team amid defensive injuries. “It was a tough year because many things happened. If everyone knew exactly what happened to me, they could understand many things, which kind of sacrifices I’ve done for this club,” he said.

“I think it is great and one day I would take the time to think about it. Right now, we focus on the end of the season and make sure we are qualified for the Champions League. After, we take the time to talk about the season because it’s going to be a big part of my story and it’s sad in one part, but very nice for my story when I explain that to my future kids and those people who support this club as well.”

While the club’s ownership transition and Jurgen Klopp’s departure created a backdrop of uncertainty, Konate has shown resilience. His performance has improved, and he now appears settled in the team. The defender’s emotional return to the pitch, including a tearful celebration after scoring against Newcastle, highlights his dedication.

Contract discussions at Anfield have become a complex spectacle over recent years, with players and agents capitalizing on the timeline. Yet, Konate’s determination to stay suggests he is navigating the challenges with renewed focus, offering hope for a stable summer ahead as the Reds aim to build on their progress.