Liverpool Delay Konaté Talks, Eye Guehi as Backup

Liverpool face uncertainty over Ibrahima Konaté's future after the defender rejected a contract extension offer focused on performance incentives rather than salary. Talks with Konaté were delayed as Liverpool prioritized renewals for Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk, but Real Madrid are now showing interest in signing Konaté on a free transfer next summer. The club is reportedly considering Crystal Palace's Marc Guehi as a possible replacement, while also monitoring the situations of Andy Robertson and Jarell Quansah. Liverpool remain unwilling to overpay for contract renewals, risking the loss of key players. Manager Arne Slot is overseeing these squad decisions during an active transfer window. The central defense remains Liverpool's main area of concern.