Three Clubs Circle Liverpool Star Ibrahima Konate as Exit Talks Heat Up
Reports from Germany indicate that Ibrahima Konaté's representative has engaged in discussions with Bayern Munich, alongside previously reported conversations with Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain.
The upcoming transfer window may witness numerous high-profile defensive players changing clubs, with Konaté among several stars nearing contract expiration—allowing potential suitors to secure his services without paying a transfer fee.
While Liverpool seeks to renew Konaté's deal, the French defender remains a coveted target for Real Madrid and PSG. BILD reports that Bayern have now entered the competition for his services.
The German champions have reportedly contacted Konaté's representatives regarding a potential move to the Allianz Arena next summer, as they navigate uncertainty surrounding their own center-back Dayot Upamecano.
Bayern aims to secure Upamecano's contract renewal, but should they lose the French defender—who attracts interest from Liverpool and Real Madrid—they would need to identify a suitable replacement. Kim Min-jae's situation may also influence Bayern's decision-making process.
Director Christoph Freund has publicly acknowledged that keeping Upamecano, rather than seeking his replacement, remains the club's primary objective, though contract negotiations have yielded no progress thus far.
Crystal Palace's Marc Guéhi emerges as another Bayern target, with the club recently engaging his representatives in discussions. Unsurprisingly, both Liverpool and Madrid are also monitoring the England international closely.
Konaté to Make Final Decision on Liverpool Future
With Konaté entering the final six months of his current deal, he will soon gain the ability to negotiate formally with international clubs regarding a new contract which, given typical free transfer dynamics, would likely offer greater financial rewards than extending with Liverpool.
Sources suggest Konaté desires compensation matching Liverpool's top earners like Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah, which has yet to materialize. However, according to Fabrizio Romano, dialogue between Liverpool and Konaté's representatives continues.
The decision ultimately rests with the player. Konaté finds himself in an enviable position where he can select from Europe's elite clubs, with Liverpool still considered a viable option.
Interested parties will soon require clarity, however. Clubs pursuing Konaté need confirmation of their realistic chances before potentially redirecting efforts toward alternative targets.
Guéhi and Upamecano represent prominent alternatives drawing attention from similar clubs. The former appears destined for a summer departure, while Bayern continues working toward a favorable outcome with the latter.