Overview

• Arne Slot said Ibrahima Konaté felt his quad and was withdrawn at Chelsea as a precaution, with the severity still unclear after the 2-1 defeat.
• Talks over a new deal are active but not close, according to David Ornstein, while L’Equipe reports Liverpool retain confidence that an agreement can be reached.
• Liverpool do not plan to sell Konaté in January despite interest from Real Madrid, who could discuss a pre-contract with him from January if no renewal is signed.
• With Leoni out long term, Liverpool are assessing centre-back targets for January, with Marc Guehi admired and alternatives such as Sven Botman, Willian Pacho, Ousmane Diomande and Zeno Debast monitored.
• The latest concern follows criticism of Konaté’s recent form, though club briefings indicate his performances will not dictate long-term decisions on his future.