Konate tells Liverpool team-mates he will leave as a free agent this summer

Ibrahima Konate has told his Liverpool team-mates he will leave the club this summer when his contract expires, according to a report from French outlet RMC Sport. The centre-back’s deal runs out at the end of June, and no agreement on an extension has been reached despite talks that reportedly began as far back as November 2023.

The news arrives on the same day Liverpool confirmed the departure of head coach Arne Slot, though the report states the managerial change has no bearing on Konate’s decision. Real Madrid are described as early frontrunners to sign the 25-year-old, who has long been linked with a move to the Spanish capital.

Konate joined Liverpool from RB Leipzig in 2021 in a deal worth £36 million and has been a consistent presence in the Reds’ defence across five seasons, contributing to their 2024/25 Premier League title win. His exit will leave a significant gap at the back for whoever takes charge at Anfield next.

As recently as April 19, Konate had struck a more optimistic tone about his future. “For sure there is a big chance I’m here next season. This is what I always wanted,” he said. “For a long time we have spoken with the club and we are close to an agreement. I think everyone wished for that for as long as possible but we are in a good way.”

That apparent progress has since stalled, with RMC Sport now reporting that Konate has made his intentions clear to his colleagues and will not be reversing course.

Liverpool have already moved to address their defensive depth, with Jeremy Jacquet arriving from Rennes this summer. Giovanni Leoni, who suffered an ACL injury on his debut for the club last September, is also expected to be available at some point next season. However, the club are likely to pursue at least one additional centre-back signing, particularly if Joe Gomez also departs.