Why Ibrahima Konate is 'disappointed' with latest Liverpool contract offer as key defender stalls on new deal - explained

According to The Guardian, Konate has rejected Liverpool's initial offer of a contract extension, raising fears at the club that another key player could run down his contract - just as new Real Madrid signing Trent Alexander-Arnold did. Now the French centre-back's reasoning has reportedly become clear.

The Guardian states the 26-year-old is 'disappointed' with the structure of Liverpool's contract offer, with his entourage believed to be pushing for a higher basic wage after the proposal was heavily based on meeting certain performance targets. His current terms run until 2026.

Konate's contract talks were said to have been delayed by Liverpool's focus on negotiating new two-year deals for team-mates Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk. The France international has also been linked with Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid.

The report adds that Liverpool are planning on reviving discussions with 6ft 4in Konate, who joined the Reds from RB Leipzig in 2021, later in the summer but are adamant they will not be forced into overpaying.