Liverpool Eyeing Move to Sign £25m Defender as Potential Replacement for 25-year-old Star – Report | OneFootball

Liverpool Eyeing French Defender as Potential Ibrahima Konate Replacement

Liverpool’s long-standing concerns around Ibrahima Konaté’s future have reached a new level of urgency. The 25-year-old defender, born in Paris and a self-confessed Paris Saint-Germain fan, is attracting serious attention from Luis Enrique’s side. With just over a year left on his contract, this summer represents a pivotal moment for both the player and the club.

“Konaté was born in Paris and is a PSG fan, so after he became a serious target for Luis Enrique’s side, it’s understandable that Liverpool could have concerns about him moving on,” reported Africa Foot.

Liverpool have been proactive behind the scenes, starting talks over a new deal with their No.5 last year. However, nothing has been finalised, and the longer the stalemate continues, the more likely an exit becomes—especially with Real Madrid also reportedly monitoring his situation.

Photo: IMAGO

Sikou Niakate Enters the Frame

With uncertainty surrounding not only Konaté but also Virgil van Dijk—whose contract also expires in 2025—Liverpool have understandably accelerated their search for defensive reinforcements. The name now added to their shortlist is Sikou Niakate, the 25-year-old Mali international currently playing for Braga.

“Liverpool have joined the race for a French-born defender who could replace Ibrahima Konate this summer, according to a report,” Africa Foot confirmed.

Niakate has previously been linked to Manchester United, Manchester City, West Ham, Bologna and Galatasaray. Those approaches ultimately went nowhere, but Liverpool’s interest could now prove more concrete. The defender’s €30 million (£25.5m) release clause makes him a financially viable option—especially when compared to more expensive alternatives.

Photo: IMAGO

Market Dynamics and Liverpool’s Strategy

Liverpool’s centre-back scouting list also reportedly includes Marc Guehi (Crystal Palace), Jorrel Hato (Ajax), and Dean Huijsen (Bournemouth). These players offer a blend of potential, Premier League experience, and—in Guehi’s case—England international credentials. But they won’t come cheap.

Africa Foot noted that “all of those might be more familiar names, which also means they could come with higher price tags.”

Niakate, while perhaps lesser-known to Premier League audiences, is left-footed, versatile, and comfortable in a high-line system—a key trait for Arne Slot’s expected tactical setup. At just 25, he sits in that ideal window of experience and development potential.

Photo: IMAGO

Realistic Contenders or Fallback Options?

As it stands, no bid has been tabled for Niakate, and Liverpool’s interest has yet to be confirmed by their usual in-the-know sources. But the pattern is clear: Liverpool are laying the groundwork for life after Konaté—and possibly Van Dijk.

“Liverpool want to keep their no.5 and started talks with a contract offer last year, but with nothing signed yet, they want clarity on his future before the summer transfer window opens,” Africa Foot’s report outlined.

Photo: IMAGO

Should PSG or Real Madrid firm up their interest, the Reds will need to act quickly. Niakate may not be the headline-grabbing signing fans hoped for, but his affordable release clause and prior interest from elite clubs suggest he’s a credible target.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

From a fan’s point of view, this whole situation feels like déjà vu. A promising player, nearing contract expiry, with top clubs sniffing around—and once again, Liverpool haven’t closed the deal in time. Whether it’s Gini Wijnaldum, Emre Can or now potentially Konaté, the club’s risk-averse stance on wages versus market value creates tension every summer.

If Konaté goes, and Van Dijk follows in a year’s time, we’re talking about replacing two key pillars of our defence with limited experience in top-level European football. Niakate might have potential, but he’s far from the finished article. Fans might rightfully ask: where’s the ambition?

Why aren’t we pushing harder for proven Premier League defenders like Guehi? If budget constraints are a factor again, questions will be asked of FSG’s willingness to back Arne Slot properly in his first window. Planning for the future is crucial, but Liverpool need to act with the decisiveness that made them serial contenders under Klopp—not gamble on the hope of unlocking value.

Let’s hope this isn’t another case of bargain-bin strategy costing us down the line. Because at the top level, hesitation kills momentum—and once Konaté is gone, there’s no guarantee we’ll find someone capable of stepping in immediately.