David Ornstein drops worrying Ibrahima Konate contract update

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Ibrahima Konate, whose current contract expires this summer, joined Liverpool from RB Leipzig five years ago. Image Credits: Imago ImagesIbrahima Konate is yet to extend his contract with Liverpool despite stating last month that he was “close to an agreement” over a new deal.The France international, whose current contract expires this summer, joined Liverpool from RB Leipzig five years ago in a £35m move.Speaking after Liverpool’s Merseyside derby win, the 26-year-old insisted his future has never been in doubt, suggesting he made it clear to sporting director Richard Hughes from the start of negotiations that he did not want to leave the club.“There are many things people have said but for a long time we have spoken with the club and we are close to an agreement,” said Konate.“I think everyone wished for that for as soon as possible but we are in a good way.” He added: “For sure, there is a big chance that I’m here next season.

“When he’s going to reply, you will see. I just wish that.”Ibrahima Konate, who featured in Liverpool’s 1-1 draw with Chelsea, has now made 116 Premier League appearances for the Reds since joining the club.According to The Athletic’s David Ornstein, talks over a new contract remain at a stalemate, with the situation not currently looking particularly positive.Ornstein said on NBC Sports: “One of the uncertain situations at Liverpool involves Ibrahima Konate, who is out of contract at the end of this season.“As I understand it, the situation is still at a stalemate, and it’s not looking particularly positive, although until either side walks away, there is still hope that it could reach a positive conclusion for him to stay at Anfield.”Konate avoided a serious injury after being forced off during Saturday’s game against Chelsea at Anfield.

Speaking after the match, manager Arne Slot said Konate had initially described the issue as cramp, but confirmed the player will undergo further tests this week to rule out any underlying problem.“Konate, we always have to wait and see, [but] the way he limped off, he told me it was cramp,” Slot explained. “Let’s hope he is right in his assessment, but we have to wait and see tomorrow how he feels and how that will work out.”During his time at Anfield, Konate has helped Liverpool win the Premier League title last season, as well as the FA Cup and EFL Cup in 2022.