It appears Liverpool may entertain the possibility of parting ways with a vital squad member under certain conditions, according to the latest reports. Liverpool manager Arne Slot was visibly irked during their latest League Cup outing, suggesting heightened tensions within the camp.
Following a lacklustre display at Selhurst Park, where Liverpool succumbed to a 2-1 defeat at the hands of Crystal Palace, doubts are surfacing concerning some of the team’s key players. Despite a promising start to the 2025/26 campaign, the Reds currently lead the Premier League, sitting two points clear of Arsenal. However, the season has been turbulent, with Liverpool often relying on late drama to secure favourable outcomes.
In particular, Ibrahima Konate’s shaky performances have sparked criticism. Last season, the French centre-back was a formidable presence alongside Virgil van Dijk but has not replicated that form this term. Rumours of interest from Real Madrid have begun to swirl, with Konate’s contract set to expire in 2026, potentially leaving the Merseysiders in a delicate negotiation position.
Sources, including former Premier League scouting head Mick Brown, divulge that Liverpool might permit Konate’s departure, provided they can secure an appropriate replacement during the January transfer window. Brown insists, “Liverpool don’t want to be exposed at the back, hence they’ll move for new signings if Konate exits.”
Liverpool’s attempt to court Marc Guehi over the summer as Van Dijk’s potential partner illuminates their strategic planning, though such transfer plans failed to materialise. Following the Crystal Palace match, Konate’s future seems under scrutiny, with reports suggesting Slot’s frustrations with his recent errors.
If Liverpool harbour hopes of regaining Premier League glory and other honours, maintaining squad consistency is pivotal. Having bolstered other positions, including a high-profile acquisition of striker Alexander Isak for £125 million and midfielder Florian Wirtz for £110 million, the Anfield hierarchy is expected to focus on defensive reinforcements in January. Consequently, should a viable alternative emerge, Konate’s proposed switch to the Bernabéu could come to fruition, reshaping Liverpool’s defensive prospects.
The coming months could prove to be transformative, as Liverpool navigates this confluence of transfer intrigue and on-field aspirations.
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