Troy Deeney Backs This Liverpool Star to Become a Premier League Centre-Back ‘Great’ | OneFootball

Konate Draws High Praise After Composed Leicester Performance

Liverpool’s pursuit of a record-equalling 20th top-flight title took a significant step forward with a dramatic win over Leicester City, and while Trent Alexander-Arnold’s late winner rightly stole the headlines, there was another performance equally deserving of attention.

Writing for BBC Sport, former Watford captain Troy Deeney highlighted Ibrahima Konate’s contribution, declaring: “Liverpool made hard work of it against Leicester but Konate showed that he is at the top level physically and he is switched on. He could become a great centre-back, possibly one that could rival the greats.”

Such endorsement from a seasoned Premier League professional speaks volumes, particularly given the context of the match—an away day under immense pressure, with the title within touching distance. Konate’s performance was one of steel, composure, and intelligence—hallmarks of elite-level central defenders.

Photo: IMAGO

Slot Faces Big Decision as Contract Talks Stall

Konate’s contract, however, now presents Liverpool with a pressing concern. His current deal expires next year, and according to reports, discussions have yet to reach a breakthrough. In an era when top-class centre-backs are among the most prized assets, allowing Konate to edge toward free agency would be an extraordinary risk.

Liverpool have already moved to tie down Virgil van Dijk, securing their captain’s leadership for the long term. They are also reportedly monitoring Juventus defender Dean Huijsen, signalling Arne Slot’s ambition to refresh and reinforce his defence this summer. But none of that negates Konate’s value.

At 25, the French international is entering his prime. His partnership with Van Dijk has matured beautifully this season, blending power and pace with tactical discipline.

Praise Mounts Amid Defensive Evolution

Slot’s side is evolving. Gone is the swashbuckling chaos of years past—what remains is a more methodical, balanced Liverpool team, built on a structured spine. Konate has been central to that shift.

Tony Adams, another Premier League defensive legend, praised Conor Bradley after the Leicester win, underlining the strength in depth Liverpool have at the back. But for all the promise shown by younger names, Konate’s presence remains pivotal.

Deeney’s words reflect that: “He is switched on.” In moments of tension—like those seen late in games, or with a league title on the line—that trait is invaluable. Losing Konate now, or even entertaining offers next season, would be short-sighted at best, and catastrophic at worst.

Photo: IMAGO

Future Hinges on Retaining Defensive Core

For Slot, the challenge is to build on what he has, not undo it. Liverpool have shown glimpses of being the next dominant force in English football once again. Their manager’s tactical clarity, combined with emerging talents and seasoned leaders, sets the stage for another golden era at Anfield.

But keeping Konate is essential to that ambition. Letting him slip through their fingers would not only weaken their defence, it would signal an avoidable step backwards—particularly in a league where fine margins determine titles.

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For Liverpool fans, Konate is more than just a defender—he’s a symbol of what this side is becoming: composed, powerful, modern. His reading of the game, physical dominance and evolving relationship with Van Dijk have made him indispensable this season.

Supporters will remember how long it took to find the right partner for Van Dijk after Dejan Lovren and Joel Matip’s inconsistency. Now that harmony has finally been achieved, the notion of losing Konate just as he hits top form is maddening.

If the club is serious about success under Arne Slot, Konate must be at the centre of that project. Fans understand contracts are complicated, but Liverpool’s board cannot allow this one to slip. As Deeney put it—Konate could rival the greats. But only if he’s given the platform, and the commitment, to stay and achieve that status in red.