Liverpool risk losing Ibrahima Konaté after contract snub – Guehi eyed

Liverpool had prioritised renewals for Mohamed Salah, Virgil van Dijk and Trent Alexander-Arnold this year — and while the first two signed fresh deals in the spring, Konaté has grown frustrated at being left behind in the process.

The 26-year-old, who joined from RB Leipzig in 2021 for £36m, is said to be “disappointed” by the club’s offer, according to The Guardian, with his representatives pushing for improved terms.

The uncertainty has forced Liverpool into action. Guehi, who has one year remaining at Palace and is available for transfer, is being lined up as a possible successor. Spurs and Newcastle have already bid, but Liverpool are now expected to enter the race.

While Liverpool insist they want Konaté to stay, interest from Real Madrid is growing. The Spanish giants have developed a track record of snapping up top-tier talent on free transfers, as seen with Antonio Rüdiger, David Alaba and most recently Kylian Mbappé.

With no breakthrough in talks, Liverpool may be forced to make a decision this summer — extend or sell — before Konaté can walk for free next year.

Liverpool’s delay in opening talks with Konaté is thought to have been influenced by the more pressing situations of Salah and Van Dijk — and the contract standoff with Alexander-Arnold, who ultimately chose Real Madrid.

While Guehi is not a like-for-like replacement in terms of physical profile, his Premier League experience, leadership at Palace, and international pedigree with England make him a strong contender.

Liverpool must now decide whether to increase their offer or cash in on Konaté this summer to avoid a repeat of the Alexander-Arnold saga. A formal approach for Guehi is expected if no breakthrough is made soon.

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