defensive shake-up could see Liverpool target a move for rival Premier League defender

Liverpool find themselves at a pivotal crossroads this summer as the club grapples with the uncertain future of one of their most consistent performers — Ibrahima Konaté. The French center-back has become an indispensable part of the team’s defensive core, forming a formidable partnership with Virgil van Dijk. However, with just a year left on his current deal, a contract standoff is threatening to shake the Reds’ defensive foundation.

Under new head coach Arne Slot, Liverpool are pushing for stability across the pitch as they prepare for another demanding season. But the unresolved issue surrounding Konaté’s contract could force the club into the transfer market earlier than anticipated. Talks are ongoing, yet there’s growing concern that Liverpool may have to explore alternatives if a breakthrough isn’t reached soon.

Konaté’s current wages are reportedly below those of several teammates, including Joe Gomez and Kostas Tsimikas, despite the Frenchman arguably being more vital to the club’s recent successes. According to TBR Football, Konaté is demanding a significant wage increase to reflect his importance in the squad — a request the club has so far hesitated to meet.

Journalist Graeme Bailey has warned that the clock is ticking for Liverpool. He suggests that if a new deal isn’t agreed upon within the next month, the Merseyside giants may have no choice but to consider selling the 25-year-old defender to avoid losing him on a free transfer next summer — a situation eerily similar to the recent Trent Alexander-Arnold saga.

Alexander-Arnold allowed his contract to run down before sealing a surprise move to Real Madrid, and the fear at Anfield is that history could repeat itself with Konaté. Liverpool can’t afford to be reactive — decisive action is needed if they are to maintain the squad’s spine going forward.

In preparation for a possible departure, the Reds have already begun assessing potential replacements. Several names are under consideration, including Nantes’ Nathan Zeze, Bournemouth’s Illia Zabarnyi, Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi, and most notably, Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite — a player whose emergence has made waves across English football.

Branthwaite, despite plying his trade for Liverpool’s local rivals, is viewed as one of England’s most promising young defenders. His towering presence, ability to read the game, and confidence with the ball at his feet make him a strong candidate for a move across Stanley Park — though such a transfer would surely ignite headlines and emotions.

During his loan spell at PSV Eindhoven, Branthwaite showcased maturity beyond his years. Since returning to Everton, he has become a reliable figure at the back, earning plaudits for his composure and tactical awareness. His left-footed profile also brings balance to any defensive pairing — something that Slot may value highly in his system.

Liverpool’s admiration for Branthwaite is no secret, but the path to securing his signature won’t be straightforward. Everton would be reluctant to lose a star player to their fiercest rivals, and any deal would likely involve a hefty premium — especially considering the potential backlash from fans.

Beyond Branthwaite, Sporting CP’s Gonçalo Inácio remains another option being monitored by the Anfield hierarchy. The Portuguese international has been linked with multiple top clubs over the past year, and his blend of defensive discipline and passing range fits the bill for Liverpool’s evolving tactical shape.

With Konaté’s future unresolved and uncertainty around the stability of the backline, these scouting missions take on added urgency. Arne Slot has been tasked with building a squad capable of reclaiming Premier League glory and going deep in European competition — but such ambitions demand defensive consistency.

The coming weeks will be crucial. If Konaté and Liverpool can’t agree on terms, the club faces a difficult dilemma: pay up, sell now, or risk a repeat of the Alexander-Arnold situation. Each option carries weighty implications for the summer strategy.

Konaté himself is believed to be open to staying, but only if he feels adequately valued in terms of his contract. His performances have been instrumental in Liverpool’s defensive solidity, and letting him go would not only create a hole at the back but also send a message to other players negotiating new deals.

Liverpool fans will be watching developments closely. The situation is a test of the club’s negotiation prowess and long-term planning. Konaté has endeared himself to supporters with his tough tackles, recovery pace, and passion for the badge — and losing him could deflate morale at a time when optimism under Slot is beginning to build.

Should the worst-case scenario unfold, Liverpool will need to move swiftly and decisively in the transfer market. With Euro 2024 in full swing, the Reds could identify potential replacements on the international stage, where defenders like Guehi and Inácio will be showcasing their abilities.

Ultimately, Liverpool must act in the best interest of the team. If Konaté’s demands are justifiable and within reason, securing his future could be as impactful as any marquee signing. But if common ground can’t be found, then identifying a long-term successor becomes the next crucial task.

One thing is clear: the defensive shake-up at Liverpool could dramatically shape the rest of the summer transfer window. And with rival clubs sniffing around their best talents, the Reds can’t afford to stand still.

Defensive shake-up could see Liverpool target a move for rival Premier League defender — and what happens next could define Arne Slot’s first season in charge.