Latest news with #Konate
Yahoo
6 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Liverpool can capitalize on Luis Diaz and Ibrahima Konate interest to fund dream $116M transfer
Liverpool looked to have avoided the need for any sort of drastic overhaul this summer. It lost Trent Alexander-Arnold, but sorted out the remainder of its pressing contract issues, allowing the team to focus on strengthening from a position of strength. A summer of having to replace Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk would have tested sporting director Richard Hughes to his limits. But the Reds managed to remain on the front foot, tying both stars down to new deals. However, Hughes' inbox has not been as calm as he might have hoped. While Liverpool had no intention of selling Ibrahima Konate or Luis Diaz at the start of the transfer window, interest from elsewhere may yet test that stance, with a knock-on effect on further incoming plans. READ MORE: Liverpool transfer news LIVE: Diaz bid rejected as he asks to leave, Isak latest, Vinicius move READ MORE: Liverpool sets Ibrahima Konate 'asking price' in bid to avoid Trent Alexander-Arnold repeat With Konate, there is a threat it could turn into a carbon copy of the Alexander-Arnold situation. Real Madrid is sniffing around, and the defender has entered the final year of his deal. Liverpool has supposedly now set its price for Konate. While it still does not expect him to depart this summer, the production of a plausible figure is a concession to the realities of the situation. Diaz has slightly longer left on his existing Liverpool terms, which run to 2027. But his deal has still not been extended since he first joined, and he has signalled a preference to leave following a bid from Bayern Munich. None of this is ideal for Arne Slot. He handled the off-field distractions superbly in his first season, but will nonetheless be eager to enter his second campaign with a more settled, committed group. That group would ideally still include Konate and Diaz, and Liverpool will no doubt continue dialog with the pair. But the slightly irritating transfer interest may yet also open up an exciting opportunity for another marquee move. One way or another, Liverpool is likely to end up in discussions with Real Madrid this summer, if only to ascertain the lie of the land. Everybody knows that it does not want to lose more of its stars on free transfers (especially with no Club World Cup to enable the extraction of a small fee this time next year), so it will want to gauge whether Los Blancos are ready to make a serious proposal to take Konate now. As part of those discussions, Liverpool might well think about mentioning a Real Madrid player or two. There's a new era at the Bernabeu, with Xabi Alonso in charge, and some interesting stars may yet be available on the market. Specifically, Rodrygo could be more attainable than he has ever been before. The subject of half-hearted links for multiple summers now, this could be the time when Liverpool makes a firm move. Rodrygo has the potential to neatly turn the Diaz and Konate interest into something of a strength for Liverpool. He creates a way for the Reds to get better value for the defender without requiring Real Madrid to stump up more actual cash, and he offers a solution to fill the void the Colombian would leave behind. Reports have claimed that this kind of "swap" is in the works. Liverpool is ready to offer Konate plus $41 million — a proposal which Real Madrid finds "tempting", although it values Rodrygo at around $116 million in total. But even if the Liverpool "proposal" is a little short, the sale of Diaz would raise more than enough money to bridge the gap. It might be a deal that works for all parties. READ MORE: Newcastle furious at Liverpool 'ploy' over Alexander Isak as transfer stance made clear READ MORE: Liverpool's 'Plan B' transfer strategy puts Newcastle in tricky Alexander Isak spot However, there's a case to be made that Liverpool could be even more ambitious. Rodrygo would be a pretty good replacement for Diaz, and he's younger, but it's hard to say with any certainty that he would be a true upgrade — so it should try for Vinicius Jr instead. As it happens, Defensa Central says that Liverpool is readying a total package of $151 million for Vinicius in the event that Diaz leaves. With Konate factored in as well, that price could come down, perhaps to around the $116 million mark too. Clearly, it's a bit of a long shot. But unlike Rodrygo, Vinicius does boast genuinely and unquestionably world-class output, representing a step up from Diaz. Pulling it off would be Hughes' best move yet, even in a summer where he has already landed Florian Wirtz. But one way or another, the possibility is there to turn this Diaz and Konate interest to the club's advantage.
Daily Mirror
7 days ago
- Sport
- Daily Mirror
Ibrahima Konate's coach backs Liverpool defender to join Real Madrid and take star's place
Ibrahima Konate has entered the final 12 months of his deal with Liverpool and there are fears that he could run down his contract before joining Real Madrid on a free transfer Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate has been backed to join Real Madrid and take Antonio Rudiger's place at centre-back. Konate, 26, is stalling on a new deal at Anfield after turning down Liverpool's first offer. The Frenchman was reportedly unhappy with the payment structure, with the contract heavily based meeting performance targets. Konate's representatives have been pushing for a higher basic wage and there are fears that he could choose to run down his current deal and leave on a free transfer in June 2026, having rejected a big-money move to Saudi Arabia this summer. His uncertain future has prompted speculation of a move to Madrid and Real are no strangers to signing players at the end of their contracts - especially from Liverpool. The Spanish giants convinced Trent Alexander-Arnold to reject a new deal with his boyhood club this year and have previously signed stars like David Alaba, Kylian Mbappe and Rudiger on free transfers. And it's Rudiger who'd better watch out if Konate joins that list, according to his former youth coach at French club Sochaux. Eric Hely believes that the 26-year-old is better than Rudiger and would slot into Xabi Alonso's side. "I'd say better than Rudiger, who is undoubtedly an athlete, but I think Ibrahima is technically stronger," Hely told Marca. "I'm sure he can succeed at Madrid and wherever he wants. "I think he'd fit in very well with Xabi. He can play in a three-man defence, as he did at [RB] Leipzig, and in a four-man defence. He's a kid who never caused any problems. "I remember when he came from Paris to stay at our residence. And he was always there to help and make life easier. The other kids followed him because of his charisma." Hely went on to say: "I would highlight his charisma and his simplicity, which make him a leader. He was very clear about that for a boy his age. He wanted to succeed and worked tirelessly, even on his own. "He'll listen and learn, and then he'll establish himself in the group with his personality. I don't see him as [Raphael] Varane. He's more of a [Marcel] Desailly type. He gives off a lot of confidence and has a very good footwork." Arne Slot would be reluctant to lose Konate, although the Reds have registered their interest in Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi. The England international is also out of contract next summer, potentially allowing Liverpool to employ the same tactic as Real by signing Guehi without paying a fee. Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.
Daily Mirror
15-07-2025
- Sport
- Daily Mirror
Liverpool star Ibrahima Konate rejects transfer approach to quit Anfield THIS summer
Ibrahima Konate is attracting interest from Real Madrid after entering the final 12 months of his Liverpool contract Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate has snubbed a lucrative approach from the Saudi Pro League, insisting he wants to remain in Europe. The France international centre-back has now entered the final year of his contract at Anfield and at this moment in time, is not close to signing fresh terms on Merseyside. Discussions with Liverpool have reached deadlock in recent months and Real Madrid are thought to be eyeing Konate on a free transfer after recently landing Trent Alexander-Arnold from Arne Slot's champions. However, in the past week, it's understood an unnamed club from Saudi Arabia contacted Konate via his representatives to register an interest in signing the ex-RB Leipzig stalwart THIS summer. But Konate rebuffed the chance to sit down at the negotiating table and instead outlined his commitment to staying in Europe, where he wants to continue competing at the highest level. Had Konate provided any encouragement that he was open to the move, the unnamed suitor would have been ready to kickstart talks with Liverpool over a deal. Liverpool would like to resolve Konate's ongoing contract saga but there is a growing sense the 26-year-old may now be holding out for a move to Real Madrid and he'd be free to speak with Los Blancos from January 1. The Reds are open to recruiting another central defender before the transfer window shuts having recently sold Jarell Quansah to Bayer Leverkusen in a £35million deal. They're a little light at the heart of defence, though Wataru Endo is viewed as potential cover alongside Joe Gomez and Andy Robertson also slotted in at left centre-back in the friendly win over Preston. Crystal Palace's Marc Guehi is on Liverpool's shortlist and they've also looked at Ajax's Holland U21 international Jorrel Hato. Whether Liverpool would consider bids for Konate this summer - given the prospect of a new contract is currently up in the air - remains to be seen given they're yet to receive any formal proposals for his services. For now, the champions appear to be prioritising the signing of a marquee attacker after lodging an enquiry for Newcastle's talisman Alexander Isak. The Magpies do not want to sell but the Reds are also threatening to muscle in Eintracht Frankfurt striker Hugo Ekitike if Newcastle do not play ball. Eddie Howe's side have already seen a bid worth up to £69m including add-ons rejected for the Frenchman, who they'd like to pair with Isak at St James' Park. In the meantime, Liverpool have also rejected an initial offer worth up to £58.6m from Bayern Munich for Luis Diaz. The Colombian international is thought to be open to a transfer but Liverpool want to keep the player and believe Bayern's bid is way below fair market value. Napoli have also been pursuing Darwin Nunez, who is also the subject of fresh interest from the Middle East, but so far the Italians have not got close to Liverpool's asking price.
Yahoo
15-07-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Liverpool must address URGENT concern or risk title defence
Liverpool are looking in good shape ahead of the new season, but signings still need to be made. We aren't talking about anything extraordinary, but a centre-back and a striker are required before the fans can begin to consider retaining the Premier League title the team won just two months ago. Advertisement Shop the LFC Store Nike x Air Max LFC x Nike Air Max Buy Now LFC Retro Shirts LFC Retro Shirts Buy Now Home Jersey LFC Kits Buy Now LFC Nike Training LFC Nike Training Buy Now Darwin Nunez might leave, which is a concern since Diogo Jota is sadly no longer with us, and that would leave the forward options in a precarious position. We might see Jayden Danns promoted to the first team, but Arne Slot's plans are still being arranged`since pre-season has only just begun. Even if the Uruguayan remains on Merseyside, you feel as though recruits are necessary, but as we have all seen throughout this summer, the options available feel expensive for the level they're at. But elsewhere, Liverpool have an even bigger concern that doesn't seem to be generating quite the same amount of attention and that is indeed the centre-back position. It's worrying me greatly. Advertisement Liverpool need defenders this summer The Reds essentially played with three centre-backs last season - Virgil Van Dijk, Ibrahima Konate and Jarrel Quansah - while Joe Gomez was sidelines for the most part with lingering injury concerns. From the start of that campaign, it was clear that Slot didn't rate Quansah and so his move to Leverkusen feels as though it's beneficial for all parties. But we've now in a frightful position. Someone has to come in to replace the England U21 Euros winner, and ideally they should be homegrown, so that the quota is met - which is an underrated thing that clubs have to abide by. Advertisement The candidate for that position is Marc Guehi at Crystal Palace, who is a few years older, but he is indeed homegrown, he has great leadership qualities as the Eagles' captain and his ability is extremely impressive, making him an essential part of England's international team moving forward. But the London club seem to want around £40m-50m and when he's only got one year left on his deal, that is a bitter pill for Liverpool's recruitment team to swallow. We might wait until next year. So the replacement for Quansah is currently on hold, which is major concern number one. The second is that Konate is set to be out of contract next summer, he is currently unwilling to sign a new deal and Real Madrid are looking at potentially signing him, either for a fee or eventually for free. Advertisement Allowing him to leave for nothing, just like what happened with Trent Alexander-Arnold, doesn't sit right, but the alternative is to sell him this summer if he is destined to play elsewhere in the future. Of the two reliable centre-backs we have, one is Van Dijk who is getting older and might only be around for the next two years, and the other is Konate who is still contemplating things. The obvious way to proceed is to buy two new centre-backs so that the stocks are secure regardless. But if we're honest, Liverpool are staring down the barrel of potentially not even signing one. All signs suggest that Quansah will be replaced by someone, but as well all know, the problems will not end there unless Konate agrees to a new contract - a five-deal has reportedly been rejected. This piece isn't necessarily to suggest any different solutions to the problem. If it were me, I'd have signed Guehi by now and Liverpool would at least have one concern wrapped up and dealt with. Advertisement But as we know, Liverpool have far more considerations to factor in and so that deal hasn't been agreed yet. Will someone be brought in? I'd expect so, but who that might be is a whole other story. Nonetheless, it cannot be understated how crucial that piece of business is. Liverpool will be hoping to retain their Premier League title. Without a legitimate third centre-back, that won't happen.
Yahoo
15-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Romano: Liverpool risk losing key player with Madrid circling
Konate Future in Doubt as Real Madrid Circle Amid Contract Standoff Madrid make their move Liverpool's efforts to extend Ibrahima Konate's stay at Anfield have hit a roadblock, with Spanish heavyweights Real Madrid monitoring the situation closely. The French international has entered the final 12 months of his contract, and with little progress made on an extension, alarm bells are beginning to ring within the corridors of the AXA Training Centre. Photo IMAGO Advertisement Real Madrid's interest has moved beyond mere curiosity. According to Fabrizio Romano, speaking to DAZN Football, 'We can confirm that Real Madrid are working on a deal to sign Ibrahima Konate in the summer of 2026 on a free transfer.' While no official offer has been tabled, the groundwork is clearly being laid. 'Real Madrid are really interested in the player,' Romano continued. 'They already had some contact to understand the situation of the player. Real Madrid are very attentive to the situation.' Liverpool at a crossroads Konate's name has become a topic of increasing concern for Liverpool fans in recent days. Having already lost Trent Alexander-Arnold in similar circumstances earlier this summer, the fear of another key player walking for nothing is not lost on the club's hierarchy. Photo: IMAGO Advertisement Despite negotiations having once neared a resolution, those talks have since regressed. 'At some point around October, November, the agreement for his contract was very close,' Romano noted. 'Then the situation changed again between Liverpool and Konate. At this point the agreement is not close at all.' There remains no clarity on whether Konate wishes to continue on Merseyside. A report from Spain recently claimed the defender had already made his mind up and would not sign a new deal, with his sights firmly set on a move to the Santiago Bernabéu. Cash or conflict Liverpool now face a crucial decision. With no indication from Madrid that they are willing to part with a fee for the centre-back, the club may be forced to consider selling Konate in this transfer window to avoid losing him for nothing. Advertisement 'There is nothing official, also because the player is still a Liverpool player. Real Madrid will respect that,' Romano confirmed. 'But their interest is there. So for sure Madrid always monitor this kind of situations with player side of contract and Konate is one of them.' Photo: IMAGO So far, no other clubs have been linked with a move, leaving Real Madrid in a strong position should Liverpool be pushed into action. 'Let's see what is going to happen in the next weeks between Konate and Liverpool because eventually they are complications,' Romano concluded. 'Liverpool decide to sell the player this summer, for Real Madrid, it could be a last minute opportunity.' Advertisement Time ticking for Liverpool This situation now mirrors the club's wider contractual strategy and will raise questions about future planning and player retention. Konate has been an important figure since his arrival and losing him without compensation would represent a significant setback, both sporting and financial. As things stand, Liverpool are locked in a delicate balancing act. With Madrid watching, Konate's future may soon take a decisive turn.
