New Ibrahima Konate transfer twist as Real Madrid make final decision on Liverpool star

Liverpool are enduring one of their worst spells in recent memory, having lost nine of their last 12 matches across all competitions, prompting growing scrutiny over the Dutch manager’s position.

While the club has traditionally avoided managerial dismissals, recent speculation has linked names such as Ange Postecoglou and Andoni Iraola as potential successors amid mounting pressure on Slot.

It remains uncertain whether Michael Edwards and Richard Hughes will act on those options.

Slot has addressed the situation, sharing insights from discussions with the club’s leadership and urging his players to “fight on” despite their alarming slump.

“We’ve had the same conversations we’ve had since I am here. We fight on. We will try to improve.

“You try to find the answers of what is needed to win a game of football but in the end it is about doing what this club is about. We have to keep fighting, fight together.

“But it would also be nice if we rewarded ourselves in the moments we play well. People are focused correctly on the parts where we don’t play well.”

Next, the reigning champions head to West Ham United, desperate to secure a vital three points. The match is critical for Slot, whose support from the board may not last indefinitely.

As they prepare for the trip to the London Stadium, addressing their defensive vulnerabilities must be a top concern—particularly with Konate’s form under the spotlight following Real Madrid’s definitive transfer update.

According to The Athletic’s David Ornstein, Real Madrid have now informed Liverpool that they are not interested in acquiring Konate, despite earlier speculation suggesting they might target the defender when his contract expires next summer.

It once appeared that the Reds could face a repeat of the Trent Alexander-Arnold situation, but Konate’s recent performances seem to have diminished his chances of a move to the Bernabeu—putting the decision firmly in Liverpool’s hands.

The key issue now is whether the club and player can agree on a new deal. Konate’s dip in form has weakened his leverage, though he remains a crucial figure in Slot’s defensive setup when performing at his peak.

Described as “tremendous” by former Manchester City player Micah Richards last season, the French centre-back must rediscover that level if Liverpool are to reverse their current decline.

With only two senior centre-backs fully fit and Joe Gomez still unavailable, Konate must play through his struggles—especially if he hopes to secure an increase from his current £70,000-a-week salary.