French-Malian defender Ibrahima Konate on Inter Milan radar ahead of potential January move

Inter Milan are weighing up a possible January move for Liverpool centre-back Ibrahima Konate, who is approaching the final six months of his contract at Anfield.

The French defender has yet to commit to new terms, opening the door for Europe’s elite to circle.

Konate, born in Paris to Malian parents, has developed into one of France’s most reliable defenders since breaking through at RB Leipzig before his move to Liverpool in 2021.

While he represents France at international level, his Malian heritage remains central to his identity, with the West African nation having previously explored the possibility of securing his services.

The 26-year-old’s contract situation has placed him firmly on the radar of top European clubs.

According to reports in L’Interista, Inter have joined the growing list of suitors that already includes Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich.

The Italian side is monitoring whether they can tempt Liverpool into sanctioning a cut-price sale in January, rather than risk losing the defender on a free transfer at the end of the season.

Konate has resisted initial attempts by Liverpool to open renewal talks, though the club remain hopeful of extending his stay.

With Arne Slot’s side chasing trophies on multiple fronts, the loss of a key defender mid-season would be a significant blow, but the uncertainty has encouraged rivals to step up their planning.

For Inter, Konate represents an ideal fit as they look to strengthen their backline with a younger option who combines physicality, pace and Champions League pedigree.

A Bosman move in the summer remains the likeliest scenario, yet internal discussions have reportedly also considered testing Liverpool’s resolve with a January bid.