Liverpool defender targeted by two European giants

Liverpool weigh defensive contingency amid Konaté uncertainty

Liverpool’s long term defensive planning has come sharply into focus following fresh reporting from CaughtOffside, detailing growing uncertainty around Ibrahima Konaté’s future. With interest building from Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid, and no extension agreed on a deal that runs until 2026, Liverpool’s recruitment department are doing what elite clubs do best, plan ahead rather than react late.

Konaté remains central to Liverpool’s structure when available, particularly alongside Virgil van Dijk. Yet hesitation over renewed talks has prompted internal discussions, not panic, about how best to protect the squad’s balance as Arne Slot shapes the next phase of his Premier League winning side.

Contract situation driving early planning

CaughtOffside report that “the player’s reluctance to open fresh negotiations have left sporting director Richard Hughes and manager Arne Slot contemplating the club’s next steps.” That line is telling. Liverpool have been here before and the modern approach under FSG prioritises timing and leverage over sentiment.

PSG’s admiration and Real Madrid’s long term monitoring are not noise. The report states that Madrid “have placed him on their defensive shortlist for 2026 as they look to refresh their backline,” which aligns with their habit of planning multiple windows ahead.

Shortlist reflects profile and strategy

Liverpool’s three man shortlist feels deliberate rather than reactive. Jérémy Jacquet is described as a defender Liverpool analysts believe “could develop into a world-class operator under Slot’s guidance.” At 20, he fits the age curve and developmental model.

Marc Guéhi offers a different appeal. Premier League proven, homegrown, and tactically mature, he is viewed as “a ready-made partner for Van Dijk.” That phrasing matters, particularly as Liverpool seek immediate reliability alongside longer term succession.

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Nico Schlotterbeck completes the trio, with CaughtOffside noting his suitability for “Slot’s possession-based, high-pressing system.” Left footed balance and progressive passing remain non negotiables under the current coaching staff.

Priority remains keeping Konaté

Despite the groundwork, Liverpool’s stance remains clear. As reported, “Liverpool’s priority remains extending Konaté’s contract.” Internally, there is belief he can anchor the defence as Van Dijk moves through the latter stages of his elite career.

However, as one line neatly summarises, “the upcoming months will be decisive.” Liverpool prefer clarity well before contracts enter danger zones, and this situation will not drift.

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From a Liverpool supporter’s perspective, this report feels familiar but reassuring. Familiar because elite players attract elite attention, reassuring because Liverpool are clearly ahead of the curve. There is no sense of scrambling here, just calm preparation.

Konaté staying remains the ideal outcome. At his best, he offers pace, power, and recovery speed that few defenders in Europe can match. 

That said, the shortlist inspires confidence. Guéhi feels the safest option, someone who would not need a bedding in period. Jacquet is the exciting one, the kind of signing Liverpool fans have learned to trust over time. Schlotterbeck, meanwhile, feels tactically tailor made for Slot’s build up principles.

The key takeaway is control. Liverpool are not waiting to be forced into action. They are setting conditions, timelines, and alternatives. If Konaté commits, excellent. If not, the structure is already in place to protect performance levels heading towards 2026.

That is how champions behave.