Liverpool transfer news: Ibrahima Konate will leave club on free transfer when contract expires this summer
Ibrahima Konate joined Liverpool from RB Leipzig in the summer of 2021; he has played 183 times for the club and won one Premier League title, one FA Cup and two Carabao Cups; the 27-year-old is yet to decide on his next move
Sunday 31 May 2026 17:49, UK
Ibrahima Konate will leave Liverpool this summer after the club confirmed the defender is set to depart Anfield when his contract expires this summer.
The 27-year-old had been in talks with Liverpool over a new deal but was unable to reach an agreement. He will now leave on a free transfer after five years on Merseyside.
Konate has been linked with a number of sides across Europe since the turn of the year, but has yet to decide on his next move.
Konate made 183 appearances following his arrival from RB Leipzig in 2021, winning the Premier League, FA Cup, two Carabao Cups and the Community Shield during his time with the Reds.
Konate: Deeply sad not to say goodbye to fans
In an emotional farewell message to supporters, the France international said he was "deeply saddened" not to have had the chance to properly say goodbye to fans at Anfield.
Here's his statement in full..
"Dear Liverpool,
"Five years ago, I arrived as a young player with big dreams. Today, I leave with memories that will stay with me for the rest of my life.
"Representing this club has been an honour. We've shared incredible moments together… highs and lows, trophies, challenges, lifelong friendships, and heartbreaking moments that will stay with us forever, none more painful than losing our brother Diogo.
"Losing my father this year was one of the hardest periods of my life, but even through hardship, my commitment to this club never changed. During the toughest moments, I gave everything I had for this badge.
"To my team-mates, coaches, staff and everyone behind the scenes, thank you for helping me grow every single day.
"And to the supporters… thank you for your love, your energy, and your incredible support. Anfield is truly a special place, and playing in front of you was something I never took for granted.
"I am deeply saddened that I didn't get the chance to say goodbye to all of you at the last game. At that moment, I didn't know it would be my final time wearing this shirt in front of you.
"From the bottom of my heart, thank you for everything. I love you all and will carry Liverpool with me wherever I go.
"This isn't an easy goodbye, but it's time for a new challenge and a new chapter.
"See you again soon, Inshallah.
"YNWA"
Liverpool's transfer plans and returning players
Skyy Sports News' Vinny O'Connor:
In terms of solidifying things in midfield and defence, No 6 makes sense given they need another option to Ryan Gravenbech and that's an area where we expect Liverpool will at least look to address.
Remember that Jeremy Jacquet will become a Liverpool player this summer from Rennes - just before he turns 21 - in a £60m deal. He is the second-most expensive defender to join Liverpool.
But Jacquet himself has missed the back end of the season with a shoulder injury. Liverpool also have Geovanni Leoni to come back from his ACL injury.
Virgil van Dijk is still at Liverpool, as is Joe Gomez - who has just a year left on his contract. So there could be movement in that centre-back role.
Cover at left-back may be needed with Andy Robertson saying his goodbyes - although they also have Kostas Tsimikas returning from his loan spell.
