Exclusive: Richard Hughes’ top priority revealed after Liverpool deals ‘agreed’
Liverpool have made the agreement of a new contract with Ibrahima Konate their top priority ahead of the summer window, sources have told Football Insider.
Speaking on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, senior correspondent Pete O’Rourke revealed that sporting director Richard Hughes is leading the push for the 25-year-old to agree a new contract.
As things stand, Konate will leave Liverpool for free in June 2026, but recent agreements with Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk have provided a boost in contract talks.
This comes after Football Insider revealed in March that Liverpool remain in talks with Konate but have made little progress towards an agreement.
Interest from PSG and Real Madrid has emerged as a result, and they could make a move to sign the centre-back this summer as the Reds do not want to lose him for free.
After Trent Alexander-Arnold agreed to join Real Madrid, and the uncertainty caused by the Salah and Van Dijk sagas, Liverpool are keen to avoid a similar situation next season.
Liverpool to prioritise Ibrahima Konate contract after transfer twist
Football Insider revealed in February that Liverpool want to sign a new centre-back this summer regardless of whether Van Dijk signs a new contract.
The captain remains a must-start for Liverpool, but there is a growing feeling that the position alongside him will be up for grabs next season.
Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi and Bournemouth’s Dean Huijsen have been identified as top targets for the role as more long-term options are also being considered.
However, they are keen to tie Konate’s future down after the role he has played alongside Van Dijk since Slot’s arrival last summer.
The France international has made 37 appearances across all competitions and has been featured in every Premier League game when fit so far this season.
Conor Bradley lined up as Slot eyes Alexander-Arnold replacement
Alongside a new centre-back, the signing of a new right-back is also on the cards at Liverpool following Alexander-Arnold’s expected departure.
Football Insider revealed on 12 April that Conor Bradley will be handed his opportunity to impress before the end of the season as they weigh up their options.
This comes after former Man United and Blackburn chief scout told Football Insider in November that Liverpool see Bradley as the ideal replacement.
However, there are concerns about the right-back’s recent injury record which could force Liverpool into the market to sign a permanent replacement instead.
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