Ibrahima Konate set to leave Liverpool as contract talks collapse

Ibrahima Konate is set to leave Liverpool when his contract expires on June 30, with talks over a renewal having broken down after several months of negotiations, according to talkSPORT. The 27-year-old centre-back will depart Anfield as a free agent, ending a five-year spell at the club.

Konate joined Liverpool from RB Leipzig in 2021 for £36 million and went on to win multiple trophies during his time on Merseyside. His exit will see him join fellow departing stalwarts Mohamed Salah and Andy Robertson in leaving the club this summer.

The news comes as a surprise given Konate’s own public statements earlier in the season, when he appeared confident a deal would be reached. “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,” he said at the time. “I think everyone wished for that for as soon as possible but we are in a good way.” He added: “For sure, there is a big chance that I’m here next season. This is what I’ve always wanted.”

Real Madrid had been heavily linked with a move for the France international on a free transfer, though interest appeared to cool following a difficult start to his 2024-25 campaign. Konate ultimately recovered to remain a regular starter under head coach Arne Slot, partnering Virgil van Dijk at the heart of Liverpool’s defence.

Liverpool have already moved to address the gap at centre-back, signing Jeremy Jacquet from Rennes for £60 million ahead of the 2025-26 season. Giovanni Leoni is also expected to contribute after an injury-disrupted debut campaign limited him to just one appearance.