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 21-year-old Hungarian international will complete his medical on Monday and sign a five-year contract, with an official announcement expected on Tuesday, according to The Athletic's David Ornstein.
The Reds have been active, already bringing in goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili, versatile defender Jeremie Frimpong, young prospect Armin Pecsi, and attacking star Florian Wirtz. Kerkez's arrival signals further ambition under manager Arne Slot, as Liverpool aim to defend their Premier League title and compete across multiple competitions.
Kerkez, who shone at Bournemouth with two goals and six assists in 38 Premier League games last season, will challenge or potentially replace Andy Robertson at left-back. Robertson, a club legend, has been linked with a move to Atletico Madrid, with reports suggesting mutual interest.
"For us, Liverpool are the only option," Kerkez's father said, praising sporting director Richard Hughes, who previously signed the player for Bournemouth. "Richard brought us to Bournemouth, and everything is agreed, just some little things."
Hughes has orchestrated this transfer with precision, leveraging his prior connection with Kerkez. Posts on X from reliable sources like Fabrizio Romano have echoed this, noting Kerkez's unwavering commitment to joining Liverpool. "Milos Kerkez, not listening to any other call or approach as he's gonna join Liverpool," Romano posted.
Meanwhile, Liverpool are poised to pursue Crystal Palace's Marc Guehi as their sixth signing. With Jarell Quansah nearing a 35 million pound move to Bayer Leverkusen, complete with a buy-back clause, the Reds need defensive depth alongside Virgil van Dijk, Ibrahima Konate, and Joe Gomez.
Guehi, 24, has emerged as a prime target, with transfer insider Rudy Galetti reporting that Liverpool are close to agreeing personal terms.
Crystal Palace value Guehi, who has one year left on his contract, at around 45 million pounds, a bargain compared to his usual 70-80 million pound market worth.
However, some reports suggest Liverpool could wait to sign him for free in 2026 if Palace hold firm.
With Quansah's exit looming, though, leaving the squad with just three senior centre-backs would be a gamble for a club competing on four fronts. "Liverpool are making a strong move for Guehi," said a source, underlining the urgency to bolster the backline.
Liverpool's transfer strategy, driven by Hughes and backed by owners Fenway Sports Group, reflects a clear intent to refresh the squad while maintaining competitive edge. Fans can expect more action as the Reds continue their aggressive summer overhaul.