Liverpool Transfer News: Free Agents and Contract Risks

Liverpool FC faces the potential loss of two key defenders, Ibrahima Konaté and Andy Robertson, as free agents in summer 2026. Both players' contracts expire at the end of the 2025/26 season, sparking concerns for the club after their 2024/25 Premier League title win[1][2][4].

Ibrahima Konaté's Uncertain Future

France international Ibrahima Konaté, 26, has been pivotal since joining from RB Leipzig in 2021, rarely letting the team down[2]. Despite Real Madrid's renewed interest—after previously cooling it—Liverpool remain hopeful of securing a new deal[2][4]. The Spanish giants, who signed Trent Alexander-Arnold on a free transfer last summer, see Konaté as a target, with his market value estimated at €50m[2]. Losing him for nothing would be a blow, especially as he could succeed Virgil van Dijk long-term[2]. ESPN reports Liverpool haven't given up on negotiations as of December 2025[4].

Andy Robertson's Declining Role

Scotland captain Andy Robertson, 31, earning £160k per week, has opened talks over a free transfer amid reduced playing time[1]. Tottenham bid £5m in January 2026, but Liverpool knocked it back due to issues re-signing Kostas Tsimikas from Roma[1]. Since Milos Kerkez's £40m arrival from Bournemouth, Robertson has fallen down the pecking order[1][3]. A Liverpool legend since his £8m move from Hull in 2017—with two Premier League titles and a Champions League—he may get a new deal, but on reduced terms[1]. Spurs could return for a Bosman[1].

Recent Squad Activity

Liverpool's 2025/26 included big signings like Florian Wirtz (£116m), Alexander Isak, and Kerkez, plus free agent Freddie Woodman[3]. Outgoings featured Luis Diaz to Bayern (£65.5m) and Jarell Quansah to Leverkusen (£34m)[3]. A pre-agreement for Rennes' Jérémy Jacquet (£55m+) signals defensive planning[4].

The club must act swiftly to retain core players and avoid repeats of past free exits. (Word count: 298)