A shadow of uncertainty has fallen over Anfield as Liverpool faces a potential crisis in its defensive ranks. Ibrahima Konaté, the powerful French centre-back, has yet to commit to a contract extension, sparking concerns and prompting the club to quietly prepare for life without one of its key players.
Konaté’s current deal doesn’t expire until the summer of 2026, but his hesitation has triggered an internal emergency plan. European giants, including Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid, are circling, sensing an opportunity to acquire a player who has become integral to Liverpool’s defensive solidity when healthy.
The 25-year-old has forged a formidable partnership with Virgil van Dijk, providing a crucial backbone to the team’s success. However, stalled negotiations with Konaté have left sporting director Richard Hughes and manager Arne Slot grappling with difficult decisions about the future of the backline.
Paris Saint-Germain views Konaté as the ideal heir to Marquinhos, while Real Madrid sees him as a vital piece in their long-term defensive rebuild. Both clubs are prepared to make a significant move, adding pressure on Liverpool to secure their star defender.
Liverpool isn’t waiting passively. A carefully constructed three-man shortlist has emerged, identifying potential replacements should Konaté’s departure become inevitable. The club is determined to avoid a defensive void and maintain its competitive edge.
Leading the chase is Jérémy Jacquet, the 20-year-old Rennes defender. Scouts have been consistently impressed by his composure, leadership, and potential for world-class development under Slot’s guidance, attending numerous Ligue 1 matches to monitor his progress.
Marc Guéhi, the 25-year-old Crystal Palace centre-back, represents a more experienced option. His Premier League pedigree and status as a homegrown player make him an attractive and potentially seamless fit alongside Van Dijk.
Completing the trio is Nico Schlotterbeck, a 26-year-old left-footed defender from Borussia Dortmund. His technical ability and comfort playing out from the back align perfectly with Slot’s possession-based philosophy, and ongoing contract issues at Dortmund could create an opening for Liverpool.
Despite the proactive planning, Liverpool’s primary objective remains extending Konaté’s stay. The club believes he can be a long-term cornerstone of the defense, especially as Van Dijk enters the later stages of his career.
However, with no immediate breakthrough in contract talks and mounting interest from abroad, Liverpool is bracing for all possibilities. The coming months will be critical in determining Konaté’s future and shaping the club’s defensive strategy.
Should an agreement prove unattainable before the summer transfer window, Liverpool is prepared to act decisively, moving quickly to secure one of their shortlisted targets and ensure defensive stability for the 2026 season and beyond.
