Liverpool keen to secure the long-term future of European superstar despite PSG admission

Liverpool have opened contract talks with Ibrahima Konate amid interest from Paris Saint-Germain

Liverpool have reportedly started negotiation with Ibrahima Konate for a new contract amid interest from Paris Saint-Germain. Despite his nagging injuries affecting reliability, the 24-year-old remains an important player for the team.

When fit, the 24-year-old is already among the very best centre-backs in the Premier League despite possessing a higher ceiling. Konate is a complete package in defence, having the skills to contribute in both the defensive and offensive phases.

The Kopites have likened the Frenchman to his usual defensive pair and Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk. The comparison is a massive compliment for Konate as Van Dijk is among the very best defenders in football history.

LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 03: Ibrahima Konate of Liverpool clashes with Tom Cairney of Fulham during the Premier League match between Liverpool FC and Fulham FC at Anfield on December 03, 2023 in Liverpool, England (Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images) — LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 03: Ibrahima Konate of Liverpool clashes with Tom Cairney of Fulham during the Premier League match between Liverpool FC and Fulham FC at Anfield on December 03, 2023 in Liverpool, England (Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images)

Konate is physically very strong while having the athleticism and pace to catch up to any opponent attacker. The France international uses strong positioning and well-timed aggression to intercept and tackle the incoming attacks. Playing as a right centre-back in a high-line, Konate fits the Liverpool tactics perfectly with his impressive attributes.

The 24-year-old is equally capable on the ball, contributing to the team’s distribution and transitions on possession. The Frenchman is formidable in aerial duels but he has struggled to contribute more often in attacking set-piece situations. However, he remains a solid performer in defending the set-pieces and aerial threats inside the Red’s box.

Konate has maintained his high performance level when fit but the fitness crux remains a big issue with him. The Frenchman missed 13 games due to injuries last season while missing two games due to muscle injury this season.

French publication le10sport reported that the Reds have opened a contract negotiation for Konate amid interest from PSG. The Ligue 1 giants conceded seven goals in their Champions League Group F, putting them at slight risk of elimination.

Liverpool's French defender #05 Ibrahima Konate headers toward goal but has his shot saved during the English Premier League football match between Sheffield United and Liverpool at Bramall Lane in Sheffield, northern England on December 6, 2023. (Photo by Darren Staples / AFP) / RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE. No use with unauthorized audio, video, data, fixture lists, club/league logos or 'live' services. Online in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No video emulation. Social media in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No use in betting publications, games or single club/league/player publications. / (Photo by DARREN STAPLES/AFP via Getty Images) — Liverpool star Ibrahima Konate is one of the most dominant centre-backs in the Premier League. (Photo by DARREN STAPLES/AFP via Getty Images)

The report further highlighted Konate’s admiration for the French club, but we believe they took the interview out of context. The France international also conveyed his happiness to be at Anfield. The 24-year-old’s current contract expires on Jun 30, 2026 (h/t Transfermrkt).

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Konate merits a contract extension based on his undisputed performances, yet it’s crucial to consider his injury record. The 24-year-old is highly reliable on the field but to be on the field, he has to stay fit. The Reds have lost Joel Matip to a long-term injury as they compete for the Premier League title. Liverpool need to solidify their defence as there is no room for error in the Premier League right now.