Farewell to Liverpool's key player as another star prepares to leave the club after reaching an impasse.
On 29 May 2026, The Athletic, a trusted leading British media outlet, reported that French international defender Ibrahima Konaté is set to part ways with Liverpool on a free transfer after his contract expires this June.
Ibrahima Konaté transferred from RB Leipzig to Liverpool in 2021 for £35 million. His contract will expire on 30 June this year, and he had begun negotiations with the club to renew his contract since October 2024.
Earlier, in April, Konaté told reporters he was close to reaching an agreement, saying there was a "high chance" he would stay with Liverpool next season, which has always been his desire.
However, negotiations have stalled, meaning Konaté will be able to leave Liverpool on a free transfer as a free agent from 1 July onwards.
Ben Jacobs, a well-known transfer market journalist, explained the reason: "There is a significant difference between the club and the player regarding contract terms. Negotiations started in November 2023 and have continued, but no agreement has been reached."
"Liverpool is willing to pay a substantial wage but remains firm in negotiations with Konaté to maintain team balance, placing high hopes on Jérémy Doku and Giovanni León for the next season."
"Liverpool chose not to proceed with a new contract viewed as expensive and will use that budget to find a replacement for Mo Salah and strengthen other key positions this summer."
Previously, Liverpool lost core players Mohamed Salah and Andy Robertson, who helped the team win nine trophies, including two Premier League titles and one UEFA Champions League. Both have ended their nine-year spells at Anfield.
