A top European club is reportedly interested in signing one of Liverpool’s key players, a development that could create a significant challenge for Arne Slot.
Slot, 46, has guided Liverpool to an impressive first half of the 2024/25 season, with the team leading the Premier League and the 36-team Champions League group stage after their 2-1 win over Lille at Anfield on Tuesday.
Meanwhile, contract negotiations with Mohamed Salah, Virgil van Dijk, and Trent Alexander-Arnold remain unresolved. All three players are free to discuss pre-contract agreements with foreign clubs, as their current deals expire at the end of the season.
Adding to Slot’s concerns, another vital player has now been linked with a potential exit. Ibrahima Konate, a central figure in Liverpool’s defense alongside Van Dijk this season, has featured in 22 matches across all competitions. The 25-year-old is contracted until June 2026 but confirmed on Monday that Liverpool had offered him a new deal.
When asked about the new contract during a press conference, Konate replied, “Yes.” However, when questioned if he was close to signing, he responded, “This is another conversation,” leaving fans uncertain about his future.
Reports have since emerged linking Konate with Paris Saint-Germain, with Anfield Watch claiming the French champions are “all-in” on signing the Paris-born defender. Additionally, Caught Offside states that Real Madrid are closely monitoring Konate as they seek to strengthen their defense following Eder Militao’s long-term injury. The report suggests a move could happen even if Madrid successfully sign Alexander-Arnold, 26.
Ahead of the Lille match, Konate revealed he had been playing through pain since recovering from a knee injury last month. Although he did not feature on Tuesday, the France international is expected to return to Liverpool’s starting lineup for Saturday’s Premier League game against Ipswich Town at Anfield.
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