After a long wait, Liverpool has received the latest good news as they are about to secure a ticket to the UEFA Champions League, with hopes of finishing in the Premier League's top 4.
On 20 April 2026 GMT+7, Ibrahima Konaté, the French national team defender, revealed the latest good news about Liverpool, currently fifth in the Premier League, following their recent 2-1 away victory over Everton in the Merseyside derby yesterday.
The 26-year-old defender personally stated that he is close to reaching an agreement with Liverpool on a new contract and is very likely to remain with the team next season, as his current deal expires in June.
Ibrahima Konaté transferred from RB Leipzig for £35 million five years ago. Previously, there were reports he had not yet agreed on a wage increase with Liverpool, with rumors that Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain were ready to sign him on a free transfer once his contract ended.
However, recently Ibrahima Konaté himself told BBC Sport that his future was never in doubt. He hinted that he informed Richard Hughes, the sporting director, from the start of negotiations that he did not want to leave the club.
Konaté said, "There are many things people say, but we have been in talks with the club for a long time and are close to reaching an agreement. I think everyone hopes this will happen as soon as possible, and we are making good progress."
"Certainly, there is a very high chance I will be here next season. This is what I have always wanted. I am waiting to finalize the contract."
"But once everything is settled, you will have to ask Richard what I said to him in September or November before everyone started talking about all this. He will have to say something to quiet everyone down. When he responds, you will see for yourself. I really hope so."
The Liverpool defender also spoke about the lack of trophies this season and their chances of qualifying for the UEFA Champions League, currently competing with Manchester United (3rd), Aston Villa (4th), and Chelsea (6th). He said, "This has been a poor season by Liverpool's standards."
"If we finish in the top four, we certainly won't be satisfied. With this performance, we must give our all next season to build something better. This is an amazing club and an amazing family. This club means a lot to me."
3. Manchester United (33 matches) 58 points
4. Aston Villa (33 matches) 58 points
5. Liverpool (33 matches) 55 points
6. Chelsea (33 matches) 48 points
