Ibrahima Konaté says he is “close to an agreement” with Liverpool over a new contract and believes there is a “big chance” he will still be at Anfield next season.
The France international centre-back, who joined Liverpool from RB Leipzig in 2021 for £35m, is in the final months of his current deal, which is set to expire this summer.
Speaking after Liverpool’s Merseyside derby victory on Sunday, the 26-year-old insisted his future has never been in doubt and suggested discussions with the club have been ongoing for some time.
“There are many things people have said but for a long time we have spoken with the club and we are close to an agreement,” Konaté said.
“I think everyone wished for that as soon as possible but we are in a good way.”
He added: “For sure, there is a big chance that I’m here next season. This is what I’ve always wanted.”
Konaté also hinted that he had communicated his intentions early in negotiations, referencing discussions with sporting director Richard Hughes.
“I’m waiting to sort the contract but when everything is sorted you will have to ask Richard what I said to him in September, November before everyone talked about everything,” he said.
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Asked why talks have stretched into April, Konaté pointed to previous contract situations involving teammates Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah, suggesting delays have become part of Liverpool’s usual negotiation pattern.
Konaté, who has made over 100 Premier League appearances for the club, has won the league title as well as domestic cup honours since arriving at Anfield.
Liverpool are set to finish the current campaign without silverware but remain on course for Champions League qualification.
“It’s been a bad season for the standards of Liverpool,” he admitted. “We have to give our all next season to make something good.”
The defender also reflected on a difficult personal year following the death of his father in January, describing it as a period of sacrifice and emotional strain.
Despite that, Konaté said his commitment to the club remains strong, adding: “This club means so much to me.”
