Ibrahima Konate ‘close to agreement’ over new deal at Liverpool

When asked why the situation continued until April, Konate referred to the contract situation of teammates Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah from last season, saying it was “exactly the same” and “maybe the club wants it that way”.

Konate has made 113 Premier League appearances since joining the Reds, helping them win the league title last season and the FA Cup and EFL Cup in 2022.

Liverpool will finish this season without a trophy but look set to qualify for next season’s Champions League. They are currently fifth to seven points ahead of sixth-placed Chelsea.

“It’s been a bad season for Liverpool standards. Of course we won’t be happy if we finish in the top four,” Konate said.

“Of course, in a season like this, we have to do our best next season to do something good.

“It’s such a great club and such a great family… This club means so much to me.”

Konate has personally had a difficult campaign. His father died in France in January, but the centre-back offered to return early from a period of sabbatical leave due to Liverpool’s defensive injuries.

“It was a difficult year because a lot of things happened and if everyone knew exactly what happened to me, they would understand a lot of things, what sacrifices I made for this club,” he said.

“I think it’s great and one day I’ll take the time to think about it. Right now we’re focusing on the end of the season and making sure we qualify for the Champions League.”

“Then we take the time to talk about the season because it’s going to be a big part of my story and some of it is sad but it’s great for my story to explain it to my future children and the people who support this club.”