Liverpool MASSIVELY drop the ball as star 'not close' to new contract

Liverpool are already facing a contract disaster, and now it looks like they are in danger of losing another star.

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Mohamed Salah, Virgil van Dijk and Trent Alexander-Arnold all have less than four months remaining on their contracts, and the prospect of all three stars leaving for free is looking more realistic.

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Negotiations are reportedly underway to prevent what would be an unmitigated disaster of a summer, in which the Reds could lose their three biggest stars and not receive a single penny in return.

Although it is these three contracts that have dominated the headlines this season, there is another contract situation rumbling on in the background, and the latest reports suggest it could lead to Liverpool losing another star.

No agreement close for Ibrahima Konate

Ibrahima Konate, who’s contract expires at the end of next season, has attracted a number of suitors in recent months.

Anfield Watch exclusively revealed earlier in the year that Konate is a target for French champions PSG, who are pushing hard to sign him.

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Although contract negotiations are reportedly underway with Konate’s representatives, a new report from the Daily Mail has revealed that any agreement is not believed to be close.

The report also confirms Real Madrid’s interest, stating that Los Blancos may even wait beyond this summer to try and tempt Konate to the Spanish capital on a free transfer.

Could Liverpool lose Konate for free?

Real Madrid are currently courting one of the Reds’ out-of-contract trio, Alexander-Arnold, and the thought of losing two key players to the same side in this fashion in back-to-back summers will drive supporters mad.

Los Blancos have a track record of attracting top talent through free agency, with David Alaba, Antonio Rudiger and Kylian Mbappe all joining the side in this manner.

Although there is plenty of time to reach an agreement with Konate, who has been a mainstay in the starting XI under Arne Slot, the added pressure of top European clubs sniffing about will not make negotiations easier for Richard Hughes.

At 25-years-old Konate could be a key figure in Liverpool’s squad for the next decade, but that won’t be possible if Hughes can’t convince the Frenchman to commit to Anfield long-term.

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Liverpool supporters will remain hopeful that Konate signs an extension to stay in Merseyside, but with an agreement still far away this could be another disaster for Richard Hughes.

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