Fabrizio Romano announces that a key Liverpool player’s contract is ‘nearly finalized’

Liverpool are in the “final stages” of securing a crucial contract extension, although it may not be the one their supporters are anticipating. This extension involves centre-backs Ibrahima Konate and Virgil van Dijk.

Currently, the focus at Anfield is on the expiring contracts of Trent Alexander-Arnold, Virgil van Dijk, and Mohamed Salah, all key figures in Liverpool’s success under Jurgen Klopp and the early days of Arne Slot’s tenure.

Liverpool’s goal is to secure new deals for all three players, but transfer expert Fabrizio Romano suggests that Ibrahima Konate might be the first to sign an extension.

The French defender, 25, whose contract runs until 2026, is in the final stages of discussions with the club. Romano stated on his YouTube channel, “I can say that with Konate the conversation is at the final stages. So agreement almost done, Konate expected to extend his contract at Liverpool.” He added, “The club are very happy with the player. He’s injured now but in general they are very happy with his performances and professionalism.”

Konate has become one of the most dominant centre-backs in the Premier League this season. His solid partnership with Van Dijk has played a key role in Liverpool’s strong early-season form, making news of a new deal a significant boost for the club.

What is the situation with Alexander-Arnold, Van Dijk, and Salah?

As for Alexander-Arnold, Van Dijk, and Salah, Alexander-Arnold is reportedly Real Madrid’s top target for the right-back position in 2025. However, a move this winter has been ruled out, with Madrid aiming to strike a pre-contract agreement with the player instead. From January 1, Real Madrid can enter formal negotiations with Alexander-Arnold—unless Liverpool secures a new deal with him first. TEAMtalk understands that while Alexander-Arnold appreciates Real Madrid’s interest, he remains focused on discussions with Liverpool, giving them priority. He will only consider Real Madrid if talks with Liverpool break down.

On Van Dijk, David Ornstein recently reported that Liverpool had made an official offer to the Dutch defender some time ago, but it did not meet his expectations in terms of finances or contract duration. Despite this, the two parties are still in contact, and Liverpool hopes to reach an agreement soon.

Salah has expressed frustration over the delay in finalizing his new deal, openly admitting his disappointment at not receiving an official offer like Van Dijk has. Journalist Rudy Galetti revealed on December 4 that Salah’s preference is to sign a two-year contract, although he would be willing to accept a one-year deal if that’s all Liverpool offers. Galetti also shared that Salah’s “great dream” is to win the Ballon d’Or, and playing for a top European club like Liverpool gives him a better chance than moving to leagues like MLS or the Saudi Pro League. PSG has been linked with Salah, but their president, Nasser Al-Khelaifi, has distanced the club from pursuing him.

Latest Updates on Liverpool: Gordon, Gravenberch, Kelleher

In other news, The Daily Mail reported that Liverpool remain interested in signing Newcastle winger Anthony Gordon, who impressed in a recent 3-3 draw with the Reds.

Meanwhile, GiveMeSport claims that Alexander-Arnold is no longer the only Liverpool player on Real Madrid’s radar; Ryan Gravenberch, dubbed the “revelation of the season” by Dutch legend Ruud Gullit, is also attracting interest from the Spanish giants. Lastly, TEAMtalk examined five clubs—four in the Premier League—that could be potential destinations for goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher, who is expected to leave Liverpool next summer.