Liverpool launch talks to keep vital star after free transfer fears
The future of Anfield’s defence
Arne Slot has confirmed that Liverpool have opened negotiations to extend Ibrahima Konate’s contract, with the club desperate to avoid losing the defender on a free transfer this summer.
The Premier League champions risk losing their £36m asset for nothing if fresh terms are not agreed before the end of the season.
Anfield chiefs have already moved to future-proof their backline, having secured Giovanni Leoni for £26m and finalized a £55m deal for Jeremy Jacquet ahead of the next campaign.
However, the retention of their current defensive stalwarts remains a priority for the Merseyside club.
Captain’s demand
Virgil van Dijk recently described his defensive partner as "world class" following a stellar display in the narrow 1-0 victory at Sunderland.
The Dutch skipper was unequivocal about the situation, stating: "Obviously, I want him to stay."
Slot has now revealed the Reds are actively working to retain the 26-year-old France international.
"We are in talks with him so that tells you what we want. It’s clear we would like him to stay but negotiations are ongoing so let’s see where that ends."
The manager insisted that the intent from the boardroom is undeniable.
"We wouldn’t be in negotiations if we didn’t want him to stay," he added.
Partnership proves vital
The situation mirrors the high-stakes contract sagas surrounding Van Dijk, Mohamed Salah, and Trent Alexander-Arnold last year.
Having secured the futures of other key figures, Slot has now placed the onus on the former RB Leipzig powerhouse to commit his future to the club.
Konate has made 33 appearances this campaign, demonstrating his commitment by returning early from compassionate leave following the death of his father to face Newcastle last month.
With injuries plaguing the squad, the Liverpool boss highlighted the crucial availability of his primary centre-back pairing.
"It’s just as good from him as from Virgil," Slot said regarding their fitness records.
Despite noting a brief dip in form earlier in the season, Slot praised the Frenchman’s recent resurgence alongside his captain.
"But he is having a very good partnership with Virgil since I’ve been here and, just like Virgil, he has always been fit," Slot concluded.
"These two are vital for us, not only because of the quality they have but because of the lack of options we have behind."