Liverpool’s January transfer window has frustrated fans so far, with the club battling on multiple fronts including the Premier League title race and European competitions without bringing in any significant reinforcements to bolster the squad.
Adding to the anxiety is the fact that the contracts of three key players – Virgil van Dijk, Mohamed Salah and Trent Alexander-Arnold – remain unresolved, leaving them potentially free at the end of the season leave.
It was previously reported that Virgil van Dijk has agreed a new two-year contract, but there has yet to be any official confirmation.
Van Dijk’s centre-back partner Ibrahima Konate is one of those to prioritize a new deal, with his current contract expiring next summer.
Ibrahima Konate confirms contract offer but admits there are concerns
The French defender remains a key member of Liverpool’s first-team squad and he recently revealed the club had offered him a new contract, but worryingly, he has not confirmed whether he is close to signing one.
As quoted by Fabrizio Romano XConate said:
“It’s true, Liverpool have offered me a new contract. Am I close to signing it? That’s another conversation!”
Konate transferred from Red Bull Leipzig for £36 million and his journey to Liverpool begins in July 2021. Since then he has grown into a cornerstone of the team’s defence, forming a formidable partnership with Virgil van Dijk.
This season, the 25-year-old central defender has made 22 appearances in all competitions, contributing 2 goals and 1 assist. He missed eight games with a knee injury earlier in the season, underscoring his importance to the team.
Along with the Dutchman, he became a standout figure in the backline and while Van Dijk gets most of the praise for his performances, Konate’s incredible defending is often overlooked.
Liverpool fans’ concerns over special contract situation
Konate’s comments will add to concerns among Liverpool fans who remain anxious over the pending contracts of key players. The longer players and clubs fail to agree on a new contract, the more likely they are to leave.
Trent Alexander-Arnold remains heavily linked with a move to Real Madrid at the end of the season, while Mo Salah, who expressed a desire to remain clear, has now been linked with a move to Saudi Arabia.
Liverpool need to act quickly to sort out these contracts before losing their biggest stars for free in the summer.
