Liverpool may be on the verge of another major setback, with fresh reports from France suggesting Ibrahima Konaté could leave the club on a free transfer in 2026.
According to Santi Aouna of Foot Mercato, the 25-year-old defender has expressed a desire for “a change of scenery” next summer, and appears ready to leave Anfield when his contract runs out in a year’s time.
Talks over a contract extension have taken place, but no deal has been reached, with Konaté reportedly demanding a 40% salary increase. The situation is drawing comparisons to the recent departure of Trent Alexander-Arnold, who joined Real Madrid shortly before his contract expired — and Liverpool now fear history may be repeating itself.
Konaté is reportedly seeking a “new challenge” after five seasons with the Reds. A regular partner to Virgil van Dijk, he played a key role in Liverpool’s 2024/25 Premier League title win.
Top clubs across Europe are closely monitoring the situation, with Real Madrid, PSG, and Barcelona all named as potential suitors. Konaté is said to prefer a move to Madrid, though a return to France with PSG could also be appealing.
Losing the 6’4” defender — a consistent starter for club and country and a fan favourite — would be a significant blow, especially given his age and stature. The report claims Liverpool have already offered him to certain clubs in anticipation of a 2026 exit.
While it remains uncertain whether Liverpool will choose to sell him this summer to avoid losing him for free, this development may prompt serious internal discussions. Konaté’s growing role in the France national team, where he’s even been described as a “leader,” is only likely to increase interest in him.
Should he depart, Liverpool may be forced into the transfer market quickly, with Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi still being linked as a possible long-term replacement in defence.
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