The France international's deal is set to expire in the summer. Michael Regan/Getty ImagesMay 29, 2026 5:10 am EDT Updated Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate is set to leave the club after the expiration of his contract this summer.The 27-year-old’s existing deal at Anfield, which he signed upon joining the club in 2021, expires at the end of June.Konate had been in talks with the club for a new contract as early as in October 2024 and told reporters in April that he was “close” to an agreement, saying there was a “big chance” he would remain at the club next season and it is what he “always wanted”.Talks have not progressed, however, and the centre-back is now set to become a free agent when his terms expire on June 30.Real Madrid previously considered a move for the France international, though The Athletic reported in November that the Spanish team had communicated to Liverpool they were no longer interested in signing him.Liverpool have already recruited in central defence prior to Konate’s exit with Giovanni Leoni arriving in August from Parma and Rennes’ Jeremy Jacquet agreeing to join this summer.Konate struggled at times during the 2025-26 season, with head coach Arne Slot saying in December that “he has been a bit too much on the crime scene” in terms of defensive mistakes. However, he has retained his place in the heart of defence alongside Virgil van Dijk, making 51 appearances in all competitions and receiving a call-up to France’s World Cup squad.Konate cut short his compassionate leave after the death of his father in January to help the side secure a 4-1 win over Newcastle United, and started every league game after that.He played a key role in 2024-25 as Liverpool secured the Premier League title in Slot’s first season at the club. Konate made 42 appearances — 31 in the Premier League — helping his side keep the second strongest defensive record in the division behind Arsenal with 41 goals conceded.Konate signed for Liverpool from Bundesliga side RB Leipzig in the summer of 2021 after his £35million ($47.4m) release clause was activated. He went on to make 183 appearances for the Merseyside club, helping the team win an FA Cup, two Carabao Cups and the league title.May 29, 2026Connections: Sports EditionSpot the pattern. Connect the termsFind the hidden link between sports terms