Liverpool confirm Ibrahima Konate exit after breakdown in contract talks

The 27-year-old France international will leave on a free transfer on June 30, bringing an end to a five-year spell on Merseyside after talks over a new deal failed to reach an agreement. Discussions had been ongoing for months but ultimately broke down amid a gap over valuation and wages, ending his time at the club he joined from RB Leipzig in 2021 for around 35â-36 million pounds.

Konate made 183 appearances for Liverpool, winning the Premier League, FA Cup, two Carabao Cups and the Community Shield, but his departure has been confirmed after what the club described as a mutual parting of ways.

"Liverpool FC can confirm Ibrahima Konate is set to leave the club upon the expiry of his contract this (English) summer," the Reds said in a statement.

"Konate will depart with our gratitude and appreciation for the contribution he made and everyone at the club wishes him the best for the future."

In an emotional farewell message shared on social media, Konate admitted he was "deeply saddened" not to have had the chance to say goodbye properly to supporters at Anfield, unaware his final appearance would come earlier in the season.

"Five years ago, I arrived as a young player with big dreams. Today I leave with memories that will stay with me for the rest of my life," he wrote.

"Representing this club has been an honour. We've shared incredible moments together⦠highs and lows, trophies, challenges, lifelong friendships, and heartbreaking moments that will stay with us forever, none more painful than losing our brother Diogo."

Konate also reflected on a difficult personal year, revealing the loss of his father had been one of the hardest periods of his life.

"Losing my father earlier this year was one of the hardest periods of my life, but even through that hardship, my commitment to this club never changed. During my toughest moments, I gave everything I had for this badge," he said.

He added that he was disappointed not to say farewell to supporters during Liverpool's final Premier League home game of the season.

"I am deeply saddened that I didn't get the chance to say goodbye to all of you at the last game. At that moment, I didn't know it would be my final time wearing this shirt in front of you."

Konate thanked teammates, coaches, staff and supporters, calling Anfield "truly a special place" and insisting he never took playing there for granted.

"From the bottom of my heart, thank you for everything. I love you all and will carry Liverpool with me wherever I go. This isn't an easy goodbye, but it's time for a new challenge and a new chapter," he added.

The defender leaves Liverpool with his next move yet to be decided, having already been linked with several clubs across Europe including Paris Saint-Germain, Chelsea, Bayern Munich, and Real Madrid since the start of the year.

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