Home / Sports / Van Dijk Urges World-Class Konate to Stay at Liverpool
Van Dijk Urges World-Class Konate to Stay at Liverpool
12 Feb
Summary
- Van Dijk wants defender Ibrahima Konate to remain at Liverpool.
- Konate's contract is set to expire this summer.
- Van Dijk praised Konate's outstanding performance against Sunderland.
Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk is urging teammate Ibrahima Konate to extend his stay at the club beyond the current summer when his contract is due to end. Van Dijk described Konate as "world-class" and a vital leader on and off the pitch.
Konate, who joined Liverpool in 2021 for £35 million, has made 165 appearances for the club. While Liverpool has other young center-back options like Giovanni Leoni and Jeremy Jacquet becoming available, the focus remains on securing Konate's future. Van Dijk acknowledged that contract negotiations are complex and not solely within his influence, stating the decision rests with the club, Konate, and his agents.
Van Dijk's comments came after Liverpool's victory over Sunderland, where he scored the only goal. He specifically praised Konate's outstanding defensive display, noting his effectiveness against a challenging opponent. The captain also echoed manager Arne Slot's sentiment that the team needs to approach "perfection" to secure a Champions League spot next season, citing their recent performance as a close example.
