Between Anfield and a Possible Exit: Konaté's Liverpool Future Under Scrutiny
16 November 2025
Konaté's Future in the Balance
Ibrahima Konaté, the French international and Liverpool defender, addressed the growing speculation about his future at the English club as his contract heads toward its end.
The 26-year-old’s deal with Liverpool runs out at the conclusion of the current season, leaving him free to negotiate terms with other clubs starting in January.
Konaté joined Liverpool in the summer of 2021 from RB Leipzig in a move worth around €40 million.
Since arriving, he has made 148 appearances across all competitions, scoring six goals and providing four assists, while collecting 27 yellow cards and one red card.
L’Equipe reported that Liverpool are confident they can convince him to sign a new contract and remain at Anfield beyond this season.
Meanwhile, links to Real Madrid have persisted, with some reports suggesting the Spaniards are weighing a approach for Konaté should talks stall. Madrid’s interest comes as they explore defensive options amid aging centre-backs and a broader rebuild.
Konaté has contributed to Liverpool’s success, helping the club lift multiple domestic trophies, including the Premier League title in 2024-25, Carabao Cup (2022, 2024), Community Shield (2022), FA Cup (2022), and finishing as runners-up in the Champions League in 2022.
On the international stage, he helped France reach the World Cup final in 2022 (silver) and secure a bronze in the 2025 Nations League; his leadership was a talking point as the squad prepares for future challenges.
In the current context, Didier Deschamps indicated that Konaté could be a leader for the national team in the upcoming qualifier against Azerbaijan, a match that shines a light on the squad’s evolving dynamics and the absence of certain key players due to injury or rotation.
Deschamps also noted the importance of maintaining balance in the squad, with discussions about goalkeeping choices and the need to give opportunities to players in the camp ahead of a demanding schedule for the World Cup qualifiers and the 2026 finals.
As France sealed a place at the 2026 World Cup, the broader question remains: will Konaté extend his stay at Liverpool or pursue fresh challenges elsewhere? Real Madrid’s interest and Liverpool’s willingness to offer fresh terms will likely determine the next chapter for a defender who has already become a pillar of both club and country.
Additionally, Real Madrid’s scouting drive has not paused, with the club weighing various defensive options and viewing Konaté as a potential cornerstone. The saga also features other targets like Dayot Upamecano, illustrating Madrid’s broader strategy to refresh the back line while navigating financial and contract constraints.
In the end, the most human part of the story remains: Konaté wants what matters most—his own happiness and that of his family—as he weighs a decision that could echo through Anfield and beyond. Humor aside, football remains a game of decisions, timing, and a dash of luck—not unlike choosing which emoji best represents your mood after a tough training session.
Punchline drop 1: If contracts were goals, Konaté would have a hat-trick by now—unfolding drama, but still hitting the target. Punchline drop 2: He might be negotiating a new deal, but at least his agent isn’t stuck in extra time—yet.
