Jermaine Pennant believes Ibrahima Konate is showing form worthy of a new contract at Liverpool.
However, the former Reds winger has defended his criticism of the Frenchman’s performances this season.
3
Konate came under fire in the first half of the season as Liverpool’s Premier League title defense faltered.
The 26-year-old has also struggled to reach the standards he showed in his first four years at Anfield.
With his contract expiring in the summer, Konate will probably leave Anfield for free.
Real Madrid had already expressed interest but had reportedly informed Liverpool that they would not pursue a deal.
The weakening of their interest followed criticism of Konate from experts and supporters.
Liverpool fan and former boxer Paul Smith even offered to drive him to Madrid himself last month.
Meanwhile, Arne Slot seems to have already found a replacement for the defender.
The club agreed a £60m deal with Rennes for Jeremy Jacquet at the end of the January transfer window.
However, Jacquet will not join his new Liverpool teammates until the summer.
Pennant’s Konate U-turn
Pennant has now admitted he was among Konate’s critics but is still open to a contract extension.
3
Speaking about Konate’s recent appearances on the latest episode of The Pitch Prospect’s Inside Liverpool show, Pennant said: “I’ve been one of his critics because I can only go by what I see week in week out and the performances haven’t been there.”
“If you don’t perform, you make mistakes and expose yourself to fair critics.”
“But now he’s showing what he was in previous seasons, which is fantastic.”
“If he can stay in this form and consistency, then of course we love him, we want him to stay and sign new contracts as long as things continue like this.”
“Whatever he did over Christmas, keep doing it.”
Liverpool kept two clean sheets in their league win over Sunderland last week and in their FA Cup triumph against Brighton on Saturday.
3
Konate played every minute of these victories, taking his number of appearances in all competitions this season to 34.
Meanwhile, he also scored in the 4-1 home win against Newcastle in January.
The France international moved to Liverpool from RB Leipzig in 2021 on a five-year contract.
Since then he has played 166 games for the Reds, scoring seven goals as a centre-back.
Konate has also won five trophies during his time in England, including the Premier League last season.
Inside Liverpool on The Pitch Prospect
The Pitch Prospect brings you Liverpool like no other.
Stay one step ahead of every tactical change, managerial sackings and transfer rumors by making The Pitch Prospect’s Inside Liverpool show your weekly destination for all things Reds.
Subscribe now to ensure you never miss an episode, sponsored by BetMGM.
Download the app or visit us BetMGM.co.uk. 18+gambleaware.org