Liverpool preparing £78 million bid for “absolutely brilliant” defender with 6 goals this season to replace Ibrahima Konate

Konate could be on his way out of Liverpool. (REUTERS)

Liverpool could be facing a major defensive decision in the months ahead, with uncertainty continuing to surround Ibrahima Konaté’s long-term future at Anfield.

Contract discussions with the Frenchman have yet to reach a breakthrough, and while the club remain hopeful an agreement can still be found, contingency plans are already being explored behind the scenes.

Talks have dragged on longer than expected, with Liverpool reluctant to meet Konaté’s wage demands despite believing they have put forward a strong offer.

Although there is no indication he has agreed terms elsewhere, rival interest is well known, and the club are increasingly aware they may need to act decisively should the situation deteriorate further.

If Konaté does move on, Liverpool appear determined not to be caught short.

Liverpool are understood to be seriously considering a move for Tottenham centre-back Micky van de Ven as a potential long-term replacement, with reports suggesting preparations are underway for a substantial bid.

The Dutch defender has established himself as one of the Premier League’s standout performers since arriving from Wolfsburg, combining elite pace with physical dominance and an unexpected goal threat.

Described as “absolutely brilliant” by Gary Neville, Van de Ven has already found the net six times this season and has become a rare bright spot in an otherwise difficult campaign for Spurs.

According to Fichajes, Liverpool are lining up an offer in the region of £78 million, with further claims that early discussions have already begun. While any deal remains at an early stage, the message is said to be clear: Liverpool are prepared to move aggressively rather than allow negotiations to drag on.

Arne Slot is believed to be a long-standing admirer of the 24-year-old, having previously attempted to sign him earlier in his career. Van de Ven himself has acknowledged that interest, adding another layer of intrigue to a potential transfer battle.

Should Konaté’s contract saga end in an exit, Liverpool appear ready to act swiftly—and this time, they may finally get their man.

Barnaby Lane is a highly experienced sports writer who has written for The Times, FourFourTwo Magazine, Sports Illustrated, TalkSPORT, and Business Insider.

Over the years, he's had the pleasure of interviewing some of the biggest names in world sport, including Usain Bolt, Rafael Nadal, Christian Pulisic, and more.