🔴 Liverpool Step Up Defensive Reinforcements Amid Konaté Uncertainty — Diomande Rejects Move
Liverpool are reportedly making decisive moves to strengthen their backline as Ibrahima Konaté’s ongoing issues with form, fitness, and contract negotiations continue to raise concerns about his long-term role at Anfield.
The French centre-back, recently withdrawn from the national team due to recurring fitness problems, has endured a frustrating run of injuries and inconsistent performances — prompting new manager Arne Slot to prioritize defensive reinforcements ahead of the January transfer window.
According to reports from Portugal, Liverpool have turned their attention to Sporting CP’s rising star Ousmane Diomande, submitting a €40 million offer and proposing a lucrative long-term contract to lure the 20-year-old to the Premier League.
Sources close to Sporting claim the bid caught the Portuguese club off guard, as Diomande is considered a cornerstone of Rúben Amorim’s project in Lisbon. Since arriving from FC Midtjylland, the Ivorian international has quickly developed into one of Europe’s most promising young defenders — admired for his composure, athleticism, and ability to play confidently out from the back.
However, in a surprising turn of events, Diomande’s reported reaction to Liverpool’s approach stunned the Reds’ hierarchy. The young defender is said to have told Sporting officials:
“I’m not ready to leave this club yet.”
His decision to stay, at least until the summer, reaffirms his commitment to the Portuguese champions and temporarily halts Liverpool’s pursuit.
Despite the setback, Arne Slot remains determined to bolster his defensive options. With Konaté’s uncertain future, Joe Gomez’s versatility under review, and Joel Matip’s contract set to expire at the end of the season, Liverpool are expected to continue exploring other targets in the coming months.
Sporting, meanwhile, have made it clear they will not consider offers below Diomande’s €80 million release clause.
While the Reds’ opening bid fell short, their move underscores the club’s proactive approach to addressing defensive vulnerabilities — signaling that Liverpool intend to act decisively as they prepare for the next phase of Slot’s project.
