Ibrahima Konate confirms Liverpool exit after five years

Ibrahima Konate has told his Liverpool teammates he will leave the club, with no intention of changing his mind.

The 26-year-old international is set to depart Anfield after five years at the club, according to reporter Fabrice Hawkins.

Contract talks began in November 2023 but stalled over a significant gap in salary expectations. Liverpool offered an improved deal but held firm on their wage structure to maintain squad balance.

Ibrahima Konate made his first appearance for Liverpool on 18 September 2021 when he came off the bench during a UEFA Champions League group-stage clash against AC Milan. Two months later, on 21 November 2021, the French defender earned his maiden Premier League start, lining up alongside Virgil van Dijk at the heart of Liverpool’s defence as the Reds cruised to a commanding 4-0 victory over Arsenal at Anfield.

During his time at Liverpool, Konate made 183 appearances across all competitions and won one Premier League title, one FA Cup, and two Carabao Cups. His contributions helped the Reds secure multiple trophies during a successful period at the club.

The departure marks the end of an era for a defender who became a key part of Liverpool’s backline since joining from Lens in 2021. Chelsea recently played down rumors of interest in the player, while Virgil van Dijk expressed frustration over the growing exodus of players leaving Liverpool amid Konate’s departure.