After a 2‑1 Merseyside derby win over Everton, Liverpool centre‑back Ibrahima Konaté said a contract extension is likely. The 26‑year‑old, whose deal ends this summer, has been linked to clubs like Real Madrid but insists his future remains at Anfield. Konaté expressed confidence that talks with sporting director Richard Hughes are near completion, echoing similar negotiations faced by teammates Van Dijk and Salah last season.

Liverpool’s title defence has faltered, yet the club’s ambition to secure a Champions League spot remains unchanged. Konaté, who endured a personal loss with his father’s death in January, remains committed to the team’s collective effort, describing the club as a family that demands full dedication on the pitch. This sentiment echoes the resilience shown in recent cup matches.

The derby victory, the first win of the season, lifted morale and positioned Liverpool in the upper half of the table, keeping European qualification alive. Konaté’s potential stay will shore up a defense that has struggled with consistency, while fans await final contract details that could lock the defender for the next campaign. Their hopes hinge on the outcome of negotiations.

With the Premier League standings tightening, Liverpool’s ability to retain key players like Konaté will influence their trajectory in both domestic and continental competitions. The club’s management faces pressure to finalize the extension before the summer transfer window opens, ensuring stability for a squad that has shown flashes of brilliance amid a challenging campaign. Their performance will dictate next season's strategy.