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Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate has once again spoken about his contract situation at Anfield, with his current deal set to expire at the end of the season as things stand.
Ahead of France taking on Azerbaijan in World Cup qualifying — a game in which Konate is expected to captain the team, according to local media — the Liverpool ace has been asked about his club future for a second time. "It's difficult," he told Telefoot (translated by GFFN). "We can’t say everything because a lot of things are already being said in the media.
"Some of the things that I read, I’m like... oh la la. That puts me in a tight spot with Liverpool fans, and they don’t even know all the ins and outs."
Earlier in the week, Konate outlined his hope of announcing something soon in terms where he will be playing from next summer onwards.
"I've seen a lot of things," he told journalists with a smile during a press conference. "Liverpool has reportedly made me a new offer; I don't know where that information came from.
"My agents are still in discussions with Liverpool. I hope my decision will be made very soon so I can announce it."
Konate was on the bench for the first game of the international break. In that, France beat Ukraine 4-0 to confirm its place at the World Cup next summer.
"In the first meeting, there was a lack of intensity," Konate said ahead of the Azerbaijan clash. "Everyone wants to play and score points.
"But even if tomorrow's match is a disaster, we must remember that we have already qualified. Don't criticize. I know you [the media] well. But we will make the effort; we have duties."
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Linked with Real Madrid, Konate could agree a pre-contract deal with a club outside of the UK from January 1 onward should he not sign new terms before then.
Liverpool could also look to make a free transfer addition in 2026 having nearly signed Marc Guehi on transfer deadline day. The England ace is also out of contract next year and has already confirmed he will be leaving Crystal Palace.
Liverpool.com says: Konate has not been in good form this season and alongside Virgil van Dijk, he has often been shaky. However, he won't have any shortage of suitors if he is available for nothing.
The Reds won't want to lose him, but also need to add some more depth at the back to make his place in the starting XI a little less secure. At the age of 26, his peak years should be ahead of him.
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