sports

Liverpool Faces Konate Contract Decision Amid Improved Form

Liverpool faces critical contract negotiations with defender Ibou Konate as the 26-year-old France international returns to peak form after a difficult season.

Despite occasional inconsistencies this season, Konate has proven himself vital to Arne Slot's system. The center-back has shown renewed sharpness and confidence since returning from compassionate leave following his father's death, with strong performances against Newcastle, Sunderland and Brighton.

Liverpool insiders warn against delaying the decision, noting that elite center-backs in their prime rarely become available on free transfers. The club would normally target exactly this type of player if Konate appeared on the market, making the renewal a priority to avoid a significant gap in their defensive options.