Key Points
- Liverpool head coach Arne Slot has confirmed ongoing contract negotiations with defender Ibrahima Konaté.
- Konaté’s current deal expires at the end of the season, making him a free agent in summer.
- Virgil van Dijk has publicly urged the club to secure Konaté’s future at Anfield.
- Real Madrid have shown interest in the 26-year-old French international.
Liverpool (Liverpool Standard) February 14, 2026 – Liverpool head coach Arne Slot has confirmed that the club is in active talks with defender Ibrahima Konaté over a new contract, as the player enters the final months of his current deal.
Slot emphasised the club’s desire to retain Konaté, who has been a vital part of the backline alongside captain Virgil van Dijk. The 26-year-old has started all 25 Premier League matches he has been available for this season, including the recent 1-0 victory against Sunderland.
What did Arne Slot say about Ibrahima Konaté’s contract?
Slot delivered the update ahead of Liverpool’s FA Cup fourth-round clash against Brighton & Hove Albion. According to Sports Mole, he told reporters:
“We are in talks with him so that tells you what we want. It’s clear we would like him to stay but negotiations are ongoing so let’s see where that ends. We wouldn’t be in negotiations if we didn’t want him to stay.”
Sports Illustrated reported Slot describing Konaté as a “vital” piece of the team, while Teamtalk noted the manager’s clear stance on retaining the France international despite earlier criticisms of his form.
Why is Liverpool pushing for a new deal now?
Konaté joined Liverpool from RB Leipzig in 2021 and has made 165 competitive appearances. With his contract expiring in June, he can sign pre-contract agreements with overseas clubs. Sports Mole highlighted interest from Real Madrid, who have made initial contact amid their search for defensive reinforcements.
What role has Virgil van Dijk played in the discussions?
Van Dijk, speaking after the Sunderland win, urged the club to act. Sports Illustrated quoted him saying:
“Obviously I want him to stay. He’s an important figure on the pitch… He’s one of the leaders and he’s an outstanding and, in my eyes, world-class centre back.”
He added that the matter rests with the club, Konaté, and his agents.
What challenges remain in the negotiations?
Reports indicate financial hurdles, with Konaté reportedly seeking wages around £200,000 to £300,000 per week, up from his current £75,000. Teamtalk sources suggest Liverpool are pressing for a decision before the season ends to avoid losing another key player for free, following Trent Alexander-Arnold’s departure.
Despite progress in form, ongoing talks remain private, with Slot stressing Konaté’s importance for the remainder of the campaign and potentially beyond.
