Liverpool’s Konaté nears new contract agreement

Ibrahima Konaté has revealed that he is close to agreeing a new contract with Liverpool F.C., expressing confidence that there is a “big chance” he will remain at Anfield beyond this season.

The France international, whose current deal expires this summer, joined Liverpool from RB Leipzig in 2021 for £35 million and has since made over 100 Premier League appearances, becoming an important part of the club’s defence.

As reported by BBC Sport on Monday, speaking after Liverpool’s Merseyside derby victory, the 26-year-old said discussions over a new deal have been ongoing for some time and are progressing positively.

“There are many things people have said, but for a long time, we have spoken with the club, and we are close to an agreement. “I think everyone wished for that as soon as possible, but we are in a good way,” Konaté said.

He added that he expects to remain at the club if talks are finalised.

“For sure, there is a big chance that I’m here next season. This is what I’ve always wanted. “I’m waiting to sort the contract,” he said.

Konaté also suggested that negotiations with Liverpool’s sporting director, Richard Hughes, have been straightforward from the start.

“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,” he added.

The defender acknowledged that the club’s season has fallen short of expectations, despite their push for a top-four finish and Champions League qualification.

“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,” he stated.

Konaté also reflected on a difficult personal year, revealing the emotional impact of losing his father in January. Despite this, he remained committed to the team during a period of defensive injuries.

“It was a tough year because many things happened,” he said. “If everyone knew exactly what happened to me, they could understand many things, which kind of sacrifices I’ve made for this club.”

He added that his connection to Liverpool remains strong and personal.

“It’s such an amazing club and amazing family,” he said. “This club means so much to me.”

Liverpool is currently focused on finishing the season strongly as they aim to secure Champions League qualification for next year.