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Beth Lindop
Multiple Authors
Ibrahima Konaté has expressed a “big chance” of remaining a Liverpool player next season, indicating he is close to finalizing a contract extension with the club.
Currently, Konaté’s contract is set to expire at the end of the season, and he has been linked with interest from various European clubs, including Real Madrid.
Despite speculation, it seems likely he will continue at Anfield beyond this summer. The 26-year-old revealed he has always wished to extend his time on Merseyside.
“My future?” Konaté said after Liverpool’s 2-1 defeat against Everton last Sunday. “Honestly, there have been a lot of discussions, and we’ve been in talks with the club for a while now. We’re very close to reaching an agreement. Everyone has hoped for this arrangement for quite some time, and it feels like we are on the right track.
“I’m quite confident I’ll be here next season. This has always been my ambition. I’m just waiting to finalize the contract. Once everything is settled, you can ask [Liverpool sporting director] Richard [Hughes] about the discussions we had in September, November… he’ll confirm the positive developments.”
“Yes, the negotiation process has taken some time, but this is part of it. Last season, it was the same case with Virgil [van Dijk] and Mo [Salah]. They signed their contracts around April, which seems to be the club’s typical approach.”
Speaking about his connection with the club, Konaté shared, “It’s not just about the fans; it’s about everyone who works at the club. Each person is important to me, like family.”
“This club is truly remarkable and feels like a family. That’s why we must give our all on the pitch, for the fans, for everyone in the city. Liverpool means everything to me.”
This season has presented challenges for both Liverpool and Konaté, who has faced ups and downs in form and endured the loss of his father in January.
As for the team’s performance, their attempt to defend the Premier League title has not met expectations; however, Konaté remains optimistic about the club’s future.
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“This is Liverpool,” he asserted. “While the season may not meet the club’s high standards, finishing in the top four would still be a disappointment. However, this is the reality we face for the remainder of the season.
“Experiencing such a season is part of the journey. Liverpool has faced challenging seasons previously, and overcoming this will ultimately contribute to our success. Moving forward, we need to give our all next season to achieve something remarkable.
“This year has been difficult; many factors have influenced it. If people were aware of what I went through, they would understand the sacrifices I’ve made for this club.”
“It’s a significant chapter of my story, and one day, I’ll reflect on it. But right now, my focus is on finishing the season strong and ensuring our qualification for next season’s Champions League. After that, we can discuss this season more fully since it will be a key part of my narrative.”
“While there’s a sense of sadness about it, I’m also grateful for how it will shape my story—something I can share with my future children and the supporters who stand by this club.”