Exclusive: Richard Hughes’ top priority revealed after Liverpool deals ‘agreed’

Liverpool have made the agreement of a new contract with Ibrahima Konate their top priority ahead of the summer window, sources have told Football Insider.

Speaking on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, senior correspondent Pete O’Rourke revealed that sporting director Richard Hughes is leading the push for the 25-year-old to agree a new contract.

As things stand, Konate will leave Liverpool for free in June 2026, but recent agreements with Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk have provided a boost in contract talks.

This comes after Football Insider revealed in March that Liverpool remain in talks with Konate but have made little progress towards an agreement.

Interest from PSG and Real Madrid has emerged as a result, and they could make a move to sign the centre-back this summer as the Reds do not want to lose him for free.

After Trent Alexander-Arnold agreed to join Real Madrid, and the uncertainty caused by the Salah and Van Dijk sagas, Liverpool are keen to avoid a similar situation next season.

Ibrahima Konate has been linked with a move away from Liverpool.

Conor Bradley lined up as Slot eyes Alexander-Arnold replacement

Alongside a new centre-back, the signing of a new right-back is also on the cards at Liverpool following Alexander-Arnold’s expected departure.

Football Insider revealed on 12 April that Conor Bradley will be handed his opportunity to impress before the end of the season as they weigh up their options.

This comes after former Man United and Blackburn chief scout told Football Insider in November that Liverpool see Bradley as the ideal replacement.

However, there are concerns about the right-back’s recent injury record which could force Liverpool into the market to sign a permanent replacement instead.