With the discussions of both Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah ongoing, and positive updates provided by the Dutch International in reports earlier today, a cloud looms over his center-back partner and his upcoming contact renewal due to expire in the Summer of 2026.
Currently, Ibrahima Konate is getting a salary of £80,000 per week, a far cry from his compatriot currently on £220,000 per week in Van Dijk.
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With reports today coming from The Times, that the Frenchman is demanding an increase of £120,000 to a total of £200,000 per week. Talks began in October 2024 but the defender is holding out for that big increase.
With the assumed departure of Trent Alexander-Arnold possibly freeing up cash for the deal to be done, coupled with the increase in revenue from Liverpool’s UEFA Champions League run and Premier League title win, the funds should be there to make this deal happen.
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However, as is always the case with the likes of Michael Edwards and Richard Hughes, they will review if this level of an investment into Konate is going to provide a fruitful return on investment.
The Merseyside club are well within the spending limits of PSR for the Premier League; the UEFA regulations of a 70% spent to turnover ratio, however, remains the main goal to maintain. Last season the club were in the 60% region with some departure expected and arrivals also expected it is a thin line to walk to ensure Liverpool are compliant with the regulations.
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It seems a steep increase for a center-back who has a suspect injury history with the club, coupled with the need for expenditure elsewhere could Liverpool sell Konate in the summer and bring in a replacement? Possibly a promotion for youth prospect Jarrel Quansah is in the cards also.