Liverpool could be open to a surprise January sale of Ibrahima Konaté, with reports suggesting the club may consider offers of around €15 million to avoid losing the defender for free next summer.
The 26-year-old centre-back is entering the final six months of his contract at Anfield and has yet to commit his long-term future to the club. Despite discussions taking place between his representatives and Liverpool, no agreement has been reached so far.
Konaté’s contract situation has attracted interest from Inter Milan, who have been monitoring the French international alongside Crystal Palace defender Marc Guéhi. Both players are viewed as potential defensive reinforcements, with Inter previously considering a free transfer move at the end of the season.
However, Liverpool’s reported willingness to entertain a January sale changes the picture significantly. Rather than risk losing Konaté on a free transfer, the club may look to cash in during the winter window if suitable offers arrive.
Inter handed January opportunity
Inter are understood to be assessing their defensive options ahead of the second half of the season. With Konaté’s availability now potentially accelerated, the Serie A giants could look to move earlier than planned.
Such a move would allow Inter’s leadership to strengthen the squad immediately, while also securing a player they had initially targeted for the summer.
Liverpool eye Guéhi replacement plan
Should Konaté depart in January, Liverpool are expected to reinvest the funds in a replacement. Crystal Palace’s Marc Guéhi remains a key target after the Reds failed to secure his signature last summer.
The England international is highly rated at Anfield, but Liverpool would face competition for his signature, and any January move would likely require a significant outlay.
With uncertainty surrounding Konaté’s future and the clock ticking on his contract, the coming weeks could prove decisive. A January exit now appears to be a realistic possibility if Liverpool conclude that a sale is the best way to protect their position.
