Ibrahima Konate ‘makes decision on next club’ as Liverpool exit agreed | Football | Sport
It’s thrown Liverpool’s transfer plans into chaos just days after the season ended, with the 20-time champions now in need of a replacement. Meanwhile, Konate and his representatives will be scrambling around trying to gauge interest on where his next destination might be.
According to a report from France, Konate is keen for that to happen sooner rather than later, with the 27-year-old targeting a resolution before the World Cup. That’s according to French outlet L’Equipe, who report that Konate doesn’t want the uncertainty hanging over him during the tournament.
It’s suggested that Chelsea have been keeping tabs on Konate’s situation and could be tempted into making a move. The Blues are unhappy with their centre-back options and would welcome adding somebody with the experience and expertise of Konate.
Meanwhile, it’s also suggested that Real Madrid and Bayern Munich have lodged an interest in the defender, who originally joined Liverpool from RB Leipzig in 2021. The Anfield outfit had been confident of striking a deal for Konate, but ultimately an agreement wasn’t able to be reached, leaving the Paris-born star free to pick his next club.
Speaking last month, he explained: “I think everyone wished for that for as long 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 always wanted. I’m waiting to sort the contract, but when everything is sorted, you will have to ask Richard (Hughes) what I said to him in September, November and he’s going to say something to make everyone quiet.”
Meanwhile, manager Slot had said: “If there is a resolution, then we will tell the world. But at this moment of time it’s not yet, so at the moment it is, we will share this information. But indeed, as you say, you knew what the answer was going to be.”
Liverpool have been linked with a return for Jarell Quansah, who joined Bayer Leverkusen as part of a £35million move last summer. The six-time European champions do boast a release clause, but it’s believed to be in the region of £70m.
