Al-Ittihad pursue Konaté as Liverpool contract talks collapse
Foot Mercato reports the Jeddah-based outfit view the centre-back as a priority defensive target, though managerial instability may complicate the move.
Saudi Pro League club Al-Ittihad are pursuing Liverpool centre-back Ibrahima Konaté as a free agent, according to reports from Foot Mercato. The 27-year-old French international is set to leave Anfield upon the expiry of his five-year contract in May 2026, following the collapse of renewal negotiations.
Konaté has reportedly informed his teammates that he will not extend his stay with the English club. The breakdown of talks between the player and Liverpool management has left the defender eligible to sign with any interested party once his current deal concludes.
Al-Ittihad have identified Konaté as a priority defensive signing. The Jeddah-based outfit, which finished fifth in the Saudi Pro League standings, is seeking to strengthen its backline with a high-profile acquisition. Konaté’s experience at the highest level and his status as a free agent are expected to attract interest from suitors across Europe and beyond.
However, the transfer bid faces potential complications due to internal instability at Al-Ittihad. Head coach Sergio Conceição is reportedly seeking an exit from the club, while new sporting director Ramon Planes is expected to arrive. This period of restructuring may make it difficult for the club to present a stable pitch to the defender.
Konaté originally joined Liverpool from RB Leipzig in 2021. His departure marks the end of a five-year tenure at the club, with the timing of his exit strictly tied to the contract expiry date unless a late-stage agreement or mutual consent alters the timeline.
