Report: Ibrahima Konate contract talks stall amid Real Madrid interest
Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate faces an uncertain future at Anfield, with the Frenchman reportedly disappointed by the club's opening offer in contract renewal talks.
The Reds, already the biggest spenders in Europe this summer, have secured Florian Wirtz, Jeremie Frimpong, Armin Pecsi, and Milos Kerkez, with their spending set to reach around 170 million pounds. Yet, they show no signs of slowing down, with Isak emerging as their top target to lead the line.
The Reds are preparing for a potential overhaul, with defender Jarell Quansah linked with a move to Bayer Leverkusen and striker Darwin Nunez likely to depart after failing to meet expectations following his 64-million-pound transfer from Benfica in 2022.
To replace Nunez, Liverpool have explored options like Hugo Ekitike and Victor Osimhen, but Isak's stellar form has made him the priority.
The 25-year-old Swede netted 27 goals and provided six assists in 42 appearances during the 2024/25 season, establishing himself as one of the world's elite strikers.
Newcastle, fresh off a Carabao Cup triumph and Champions League qualification, are under no financial pressure to sell, having resolved Profit and Sustainability concerns. With Isak's contract running until 2028, the Magpies have set a hefty valuation, reportedly exceeding 150 million pounds.
A report from Spanish outlet Fichajes suggested Liverpool are readying a 120-million-euro (approximately 102.5-million-pound) bid, but this may fall short of Newcastle's demands.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has cast doubt on the move's feasibility, stating, "Liverpool would try for Isak if he became available, but at the moment, I don't have this feeling. The club see it as a very, very difficult deal."
Newcastle's confidence in retaining Isak is further bolstered by their plans to extend his contract. Chief executive Darren Eales has said, "We hope to agree an extension with Isak and his representatives this summer," signaling their intent to fend off interest from Liverpool and other suitors like Arsenal.
Recent posts on X reflect the buzz around the potential transfer, with some sources claiming Liverpool have held talks with Isak's agent and that the player is open to the move. One post noted, "Liverpool are pushing very hard for Alexander Isak. They feel they can persuade the Swedish international to join," though such claims remain unverified.
Meanwhile, Liverpool's pursuit of defensive reinforcements continues, with Crystal Palace's Marc Guehi a prime target as his contract nears its final year.
The Reds' aggressive transfer strategy underlines their ambition to defend their Premier League title and compete in the Champions League under manager Arne Slot. Whether they can pry Isak from Newcastle's grasp, however, remains a formidable challenge.