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Ibrahima Konate has revealed reports that he has received a new contract offer from Liverpool are wide of the mark, and said he hopes to make an announcement on his future soon.
The center-back’s contract expires at the end of the season, and he has been linked with a move elsewhere. Real Madrid reportedly is keen on signing Konate for free this summer, less than six months after Trent Alexander-Arnold joined Los Blancos at the end of his Liverpool contract.
Konate and Liverpool have been in talks for over a year regarding an extension, but have yet to come to an agreement. Recent reports have claimed he is edging toward remaining at Anfield, which was not the case a few months ago.
This week, claims online stated Liverpool had submitted a final offer for the Frenchman, but speaking ahead of Sunday’s World Cup qualifier in Azerbaijan, Konate clarified that is not the case.
“I've seen a lot of things,” he told journalists with a smile. “Liverpool have 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.”
The future of French international defenders has been a recurring topic this week, with Kylian Mbappe asked if he would like to see Dayot Upamecano join him at Real. The Bayern Munich star has also been linked with a move to Anfield.
As for Konate, Liverpool is eager to tie him down to fresh terms. He remains one of Arne Slot’s most-trusted players, and has started all 15 Premier League and Champions League matches this season.
His form, however, has been patchy. Several impressive displays, such as against Manchester United and Real in recent weeks, have been followed by underwhelming displays, like in last Sunday’s defeat at the Etihad.
Konate also struggled in the loss to Chelsea last month, and started the season terribly, with high-profile mistakes in all of Liverpool’s first three fixtures.
The 26-year-old is expected to start in France’s dead rubber World Cup qualifier on Sunday, after watching from the bench as the 2018 world champions beat Ukraine 4-0 on Thursday.
“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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