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Liverpool reportedly still have hope of keeping Ibrahima Konate despite him also having transfer interest from Real Madrid, according to Fichajes.DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAYThe France international has been a hugely important player during his time at Anfield, but he’s now coming towards the end of his contract.Real had cooled their interest in Konate, according to the Athletic, but it may be that the Spanish giants are once again considering him for this summer.Fichajes claim that Los Blancos have rekindled their interest in Konate, though Liverpool still have some hope of being able to keep him.Liverpool need to do what they can to keep Ibrahima KonateIbrahima Konate in action for LiverpoolIbrahima Konate in action for Liverpool (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)Konate has rarely let Liverpool down since joining them from RB Leipzig back in 2021, and he could have a key role for their future as he’s still only 26 years of age.That means he’s arguably yet to even reach his peak, and he could have a fair few years left ahead of him to replace Virgil van Dijk as the experienced head in this LFC side.Van Dijk surely can’t play 90 minutes week in, week out for too much longer, so it would be a big help for Liverpool if Konate could stay.

In a bombshell move that’s set to shake up the Premier League, Liverpool are on the verge of securing the signature of Wolverhampton Wanderers’ teenage sensation, Mateus Mane. The 18-year-old forward, hailed for his “outrageous” skills and “explosive” talent, is reportedly closing in on a blockbuster £50million switch to Anfield. This could be the game-changing addition Jürgen Klopp’s successor has been craving to reignite the Reds’ title charge!

Sources close to the deal reveal that Mane’s agents have been spotted at Liverpool’s state-of-the-art AXA Training Centre, engaging in high-level discussions about the club’s ambitious long-term project. While initial reports suggested these were exploratory talks, insiders now confirm that momentum is building rapidly towards a full agreement. With Wolves facing a precarious battle against relegation, the Molineux outfit may have no choice but to cash in on their prized asset come the summer window.

Mane has been nothing short of a revelation this season, bursting onto the scene amid Wolves’ turbulent campaign. Making his senior debut just last May, the versatile attacker – capable of dazzling as a No. 10, right winger, or centre-forward – has already racked up impressive goal contributions against top sides like Arsenal, West Ham United, and Everton. His composure under pressure was on full display with clinical finishes that left defenders reeling, while his visionary pass in the FA Cup demolition of Shrewsbury Town showcased a maturity beyond his years.

Sky Sports pundits have been effusive in their praise, dubbing Mane’s style as “fearless” and his impact “astonishing.” One analyst even described his dribbling and decision-making as “outrageous,” drawing comparisons to some of the game’s modern greats. At just 18, and already an England youth international, Mane represents the kind of raw, high-potential talent that Liverpool have built their recent success on – think Trent Alexander-Arnold or Harvey Elliott.

But Liverpool aren’t the only ones circling. TEAMtalk’s Graeme Bailey reported back in January that Manchester United, Manchester City, Arsenal, Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur, and even Everton are all keeping tabs on the prodigy. Yet, it’s the Reds who appear to have stolen a march, with formal discussions underway since early February. Wolves have slapped a £45-50million price tag on their starlet, a figure that could rise if a bidding war erupts, but Liverpool’s pulling power and track record of developing young stars might just seal the deal.Wolves boss Gary O’Neil

Wolves boss Gary O’Neil has previously dismissed January exit rumors, insisting Mane is integral to their survival bid. However, relegation to the Championship would almost certainly force their hand, making a summer move inevitable. For Liverpool, this signing could be a masterstroke, injecting fresh energy into a squad that’s shown signs of needing rejuvenation.

Fans on social media are already buzzing, with #ManeToAnfield trending as supporters dream of the “explosive” forward linking up with the likes of Mohamed Salah and Darwin Núñez. Could this be the start of a new era at Liverpool? One thing’s for sure – if Mane lands at Anfield, the Premier League had better brace itself for fireworks.

In a stunning revelation that has sent shockwaves through Anfield, Mohamed Salah has been confronted with the stark financial reality of his soaring personal worth—now valued at a staggering $61 million—amid swirling rumors of a potential Liverpool exit. As the Egyptian King’s contract winds down with just 18 months left until summer 2027, club insiders reveal that The Reds are weighing their options in what could be one of the most pivotal transfer sagas in Premier League history.

The figures, unearthed from the latest company accounts for Salah UK Commercial Ltd—the entity handling his lucrative image rights and commercial deals (separate from his Liverpool wages)—paint a picture of unprecedented prosperity. For the financial year ending June 30, 2025, Salah’s assets ballooned to £45 million (approximately $61.3 million), marking a healthy £6.2 million ($8.4 million) increase from the prior year. This windfall underscores not just Salah’s marketability as a global icon but also the eye-watering sums that could define his next move.

At 33 years old, Salah remains a cornerstone of Liverpool’s attack, his predatory instincts and unyielding work rate showing no signs of fading. Just last season, he notched seven goals across all competitions, including a clinical penalty in a 3-0 FA Cup fourth-round demolition of Brighton at Anfield on February 15, 2025—a moment that still resonates as a symbol of his enduring brilliance. Yet, with his two-year extension signed in April 2024 now entering its twilight, the whispers from the Saudi Pro League have grown into a roar. Mega-clubs in the oil-rich kingdom, backed by bottomless coffers, have long coveted the three-time Premier League Golden Boot winner, dangling contracts that could dwarf even his current £350,000-a-week Liverpool salary.

Liverpool’s hierarchy, led by sporting director Richard Hughes and manager Arne Slot, find themselves at a crossroads. Sources close to the club suggest that while Salah’s form—highlighted by his recent brace against Nottingham Forest—makes him indispensable for the title charge, the cold calculus of football economics looms large. “Mohamed has been told the reality,” one Anfield insider confided to Liverpool.com. “His value off the pitch is astronomical, but on it, we’re talking about legacy versus liquidity. A $61 million asset walking out the door for free in 2027? That’s not sustainable.”

Slot, ever the pragmatist since taking the reins from Jürgen Klopp, has been vocal in his admiration for the forward. Following that FA Cup triumph, the Dutch tactician gushed: “It is very nice to have him on the scoresheet again, but what I like the most is, he is scoring goals you can almost expect, but he also helps the team a lot defensively, and that is something very positive. What the team also needs and is much more capable of playing every three days at an intensity level… the future looks really bright.” These words ring hollow amid the speculation, however, as Liverpool eyes a squad refresh. With young guns like Darwin Núñez and Luis Díaz stepping up, the club is reportedly open to a summer sale—potentially for north of £100 million—to fund pursuits of a world-class No. 6 and defensive reinforcements.

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, speaking on his CaughtOffside podcast, echoed the sentiment: “Salah’s $61M reality is a double-edged sword. It highlights his commercial goldmine status, but for Liverpool, it’s a reminder that stars like him don’t come cheap to keep. Saudi sides are preparing another bid, but Arne Slot wants assurances Salah is all-in for the Klopp era’s endgame.”

Salah himself has remained stoic, posting cryptic messages on social media that fuel the fire. A recent Instagram story featuring the pyramids and the caption “Home is where the heart is” has fans divided—nostalgic nod to Egypt or subtle hint at Middle Eastern pastures? One thing’s certain: as Liverpool pushes for a quadruple this season, the shadow of departure hangs heavy.

For now, Slot’s “bright future” rhetoric holds sway, but with the transfer window looming, the $61M question isn’t just about Salah’s bank balance—it’s about whether Anfield can afford to let their talisman slip away. Stay tuned to Liverpool.com for the latest developments in this blockbuster story.

Liverpool, England – In a major boost for Liverpool’s defensive recruitment plans, the Reds have been alerted to a significant price reduction in their pursuit of Borussia Dortmund’s towering centre-back Nico Schlotterbeck. According to reports from Germany, the 26-year-old defender’s valuation has plummeted by a staggering £18 million, making him a more attainable target for the Premier League giants.

Schlotterbeck, who stands at an imposing 6ft 3in (191cm), has earned the nickname “monster” for his dominant aerial presence and robust defensive style. His ability to win duels in the air, combined with elite ball-playing skills from the back, has made him one of Europe’s most sought-after centre-backs. Since joining Dortmund from SC Freiburg for €20 million in July 2022, he has featured in 150 matches, contributing 9 goals and 18 assists – impressive numbers for a defender.

The price drop comes amid Dortmund’s growing acceptance that Schlotterbeck will not extend his contract, which is set to expire in June 2027. Initially valued at around €70 million (£61m / $83m), the German club is now reportedly willing to let him go for €50 million (£43m / $59m) at the end of the current season. This £18m discount represents a golden opportunity for clubs looking to bolster their backline without breaking the bank.

Liverpool’s interest in Schlotterbeck is no secret. The Anfield side has already initiated preliminary talks with the player’s agents, viewing him as a potential long-term successor to their legendary captain, Virgil van Dijk. With van Dijk now in his mid-30s, the Reds are keen to future-proof their defense. Schlotterbeck’s left-footed prowess and ability to partner seamlessly with Ibrahima Konate make him an ideal fit for Arne Slot’s tactical setup.

However, Liverpool face stiff competition in the race for his signature. Real Madrid, the reigning European champions, are said to be leading the chase. Los Blancos have reignited their interest in the German international, seeing him as a key addition to their squad amid uncertainties in their own defensive ranks.

Dortmund’s decision to cash in now rather than risk losing him on a free transfer in 2027 has opened the door for a summer bidding war.Borussia Dortmund’s stance is clear: after multiple failed attempts to convince Schlotterbeck to sign a new deal, the club has shifted focus to maximizing his transfer value. Sources close to the matter indicate that the Black and Yellows are prioritizing financial stability, especially with other key players potentially on the move.

For Liverpool fans, this development could signal an exciting rebuild phase. Schlotterbeck’s blend of physicality, technical ability, and international experience – he has 12 caps for Germany – aligns perfectly with the club’s ambitions to challenge for domestic and European honors. If the Reds can secure his services at the reduced price, it would represent one of the shrewdest deals of the transfer window.As the season progresses, expect more twists in this saga. Liverpool’s scouting team will undoubtedly monitor Schlotterbeck’s performances closely, while Real Madrid’s involvement adds an extra layer of intrigue. Stay tuned for updates as this breaking story develops.

Liverpool supporters have hit out at Cody Gakpo after another underwhelming display in the Reds’ 1-0 victory over Sunderland at the Stadium of Light.

Following their weekend loss to Manchester City and a run of midweek results elsewhere, Liverpool went into the match five points behind fifth-placed Chelsea. Sunderland, who had remained unbeaten at home in the Premier League all season, looked set to extend that record until Virgil van Dijk powered in a header from Mohamed Salah’s corner in the 61st minute.In a game short on clear chances, Arne Slot’s side did enough to take all three points back to Merseyside and keep their Champions League hopes alive.

Slot once again named Gakpo on the left wing for what was his 20th league start of the season, but the Dutch forward struggled to influence the match in the final third.Gakpo has found it difficult to hit form this campaign after becoming Liverpool’s first-choice option on the left following Luis Diaz’s departure in the summer.

He arrived at Sunderland having scored just twice in his previous 14 appearances, and his goal drought continued as he failed to register a single effort that tested goalkeeper Robin Roefs.He delivered four corners but none found a teammate, while only one of his eight crosses was successful.

From open play, he created just one chance and repeatedly gave the ball away — losing possession 13 times — before being replaced by Curtis Jones in the 75th minute.Fans had already criticised Gakpo for his display against Manchester City, and despite the win, many returned to social media to voice their frustration once again.

With Slot’s position still under scrutiny, some supporters have also pointed to his continued faith in Gakpo as a major issue this season.One fan posted on X: “Cody Gakpo starting week in week out this season is one of the most painful experiences I’ve witnessed at this club, and I’ve suffered the Roy Hodgson era.”

Liverpool boss Arne Slot has confirmed that the club are currently in discussions to keep Ibrahima Konaté at Anfield by offering him a new contract. With the defender’s current deal running down and the risk of him becoming a free agent this summer, many fans had started to fear that his time at Liverpool could be coming to an end.

However, Slot has made it clear that the Reds are still pushing hard to convince the French centre-back to stay. His comments come shortly after Virgil van Dijk also encouraged Konaté to remain with the club.“We are in talks with Ibou Konaté over a new deal, so that tells you what we want,” Slot said. “It’s clear we want him to stay. Negotiations are ongoing, and we’ll see where that ends. We wouldn’t be negotiating if we didn’t want him to stay.”

The update will come as a boost for Liverpool supporters, even though previous reports from The Athletic claimed there had been no major progress in negotiations so far.Konaté has been a crucial figure for Liverpool in recent seasons, and keeping him now feels more important than ever. With Van Dijk getting older and likely to take on a smaller role in the coming years, Konaté could become the key leader in Liverpool’s defence.

Liverpool are expected to strengthen their backline with new signings, but holding on to an established player like Konaté would ease the pressure, rather than relying on several new defenders to settle quickly at the same time.

Liverpool’s defense has faced significant challenges this season.While last season’s performances were fairly solid, the team clearly needs to rebuild confidence heading into the 2025–26 campaign. Arne Slot has added a few new defensive signings, and as they continue to adapt to Liverpool’s style, there are signs that improvement is on the horizon.Still, with Ibrahima Konate’s future uncertain and only one guaranteed season left for Virgil van Dijk, succession planning is becoming essential.Several players have been linked with a summer move to Liverpool, but with Marc Guehi and Dayot Upamecano no longer available, the Reds’ options are narrowing.

Nico Schlotterbeck remains a prominent target, having been consistently linked to the club this season.Schlotterbeck, capable of playing at left-back or centre-back, could be a perfect fit, especially with Andy Robertson expected to leave after the 2025–26 season. His contract with Borussia Dortmund runs until June 2027, and since no extension has been signed, he may be obtainable for a reduced fee.The lack of an extension gives Liverpool a potential opening, though German outlet Bulli News reports that Schlotterbeck could make a decision sooner than expected. Borussia Dortmund sporting director Sebastian Kehl said, “I’m a fan of clarity in all areas. Sometimes you have to be patient, sometimes you make your own decisions, and in other situations, you depend on the other side. We’re stepping on the gas—Nico knows we want a decision as soon as possible!”Over the past few seasons, Schlotterbeck has established himself in Dortmund’s starting XI and become a fan favourite.

At just 26 years old, he still has plenty of peak years ahead. This season, he has made 26 appearances across all competitions, contributing five goals.Although he has spent his entire career in Germany and has attracted interest from Real Madrid, Liverpool could have a strong chance of landing him.Next season, the Reds may have five senior centre-backs available when fully fit, but with Joe Gomez’s injury history and Giovanni Leoni’s inexperience, adding a player with Champions League experience could be crucial.No transfer fee has been revealed, but given Liverpool’s recent investment in Jeremy Jacquet, spending further to secure the long-term future of their defense seems entirely plausible—especially after a season that exposed some weaknesses at the back.

Liverpool are back at Anfield for a huge FA Cup clash with Brighton, and Arne Slot has a tricky selection call to make due to injuries, rotation needs, and recent form. After winning the Premier League in his first season, Slot is still juggling big ambitions with careful squad management — and this cup tie is another test of how he plans to use his squad.Liverpool come into the match with fresh injury worries following their 1-0 win away at Sunderland. Wataru Endo, who featured at full-back, picked up a serious injury.“We still need to assess him properly, but it’s clear and obvious he will be out for quite a long time,” Slot confirmed in his pre-match press conference.“He’s a good centre-back and midfielder as well. In those areas, we’re vulnerable too if anything happens.”Endo adds to an already lengthy injury list that includes Alexander Isak, Leoni, Frimpong, and Bradley. Isak’s broken leg has left Liverpool shortof striker options, meaning Cody Gakpo and Hugo Ekitike will have extra pressure on them.

With a packed schedule ahead, Liverpool’s injury situation could affect how strongly they go for this tie against Brighton.There is some good news, though, with Dominik Szoboszlai returning after serving a suspension that only applied in the Premier League. His availability gives Liverpool more creativity and flexibility. Alexis Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch played as the midfield double pivot at Sunderland, but Curtis Jones is pushing hard for a start as Slot looks to protect his key players.Jones offers energy and sharp movement between the lines, while Mac Allister’s calmness on the ball could be vital against Brighton’s technical midfield. Liverpool are expected to stick with a 4-2-3-1 system, with fluid attacking movement behind the striker aimed at pulling Brighton’s defence out of shape.

Joe Gomez’s return from injury also comes at the perfect time. He replaced Endo after 69 minutes at the Stadium of Light, and his presence could allow either Virgil van Dijk or Ibrahima Konaté to be rested after playing heavy minutes recently. Slot has leaned heavily on that centre-back partnership, so changes feel likely.At left-back, Andy Robertson started ahead of Milos Kerkez last time out. Whether Robertson keeps his place or Kerkez comes in may depend on how Liverpool want to handle Brighton’s threat out wide. With Endo now sidelined, Liverpool’s defensive depth remains a major concern.

The predicted Liverpool XI reflects both necessity and tactical planning. Gakpo may lead the line to give Ekitike a rest, while Mohamed Salah and Federico Chiesa provide pace and danger from the wings. Florian Wirtz in the central attacking role would add creativity and unpredictability against Brighton’s press.Predicted Liverpool XI:Mamardashvili, Szoboszlai, Gomez, Van Dijk, Robertson, Gravenberch, Jones, Salah, Wirtz, Chiesa, Gakpo.Kick-off is set for 8pm on Saturday, February 14, 2026, at Anfield, with live coverage on TNT Sports. Liverpool fans will be hoping the mix of returning players and fresh options is enough to push Slot’s side into the next round against a tough Brighton team.

A Liverpool icon has admitted he was impressed by Raheem Sterling’s ability — but says he never really took to him, mainly because of how his Liverpool exit played out.Sterling’s time at Chelsea ended in disappointment, and his deal was cancelled at the end of January despite still having 18 months left. That made him a free agent, meaning he could sign for any club even outside the transfer window.In the end, the 31-year-old chose Feyenoord, with Robin van Persie explaining that Sterling wanted to “regain the joy” in his football. The move effectively closes the chapter on Sterling’s 14-year Premier League career.Despite everything he achieved in England, it’s clear not everyone from his Liverpool days is a fan.

Sterling joined Liverpool from QPR’s academy in February 2010 for an initial £450,000, with add-ons that could have taken the deal up to £2m. He made his senior debut in March 2012 against Wigan Athletic, becoming the club’s third-youngest player at just 17 years and 107 days.He quickly became a key figure in Liverpool’s first team during his three seasons, but former teammate Dirk Kuyt has admitted Sterling never won him over.Kuyt, now manager of FC Dordrecht in the Netherlands, was part of the Liverpool squad when Sterling broke through. Asked about Sterling’s move to the Dutch top flight, Kuyt praised his quality — but revealed his opinion has been shaped by Sterling’s controversial switch to Manchester City in 2015.Speaking to ESPN, Kuyt said Sterling was clearly talented, but added: “Ultimately, I didn’t like him that much because he quickly moved to a big rival.”

Sterling’s Liverpool departure became toxic in 2015 after he gave an unauthorised BBC interview confirming he had rejected a new contract. Tensions escalated further when his agent publicly stated the decision was financial and that Sterling wanted to leave.After Liverpool turned down two offers from City, Sterling completed his move in July 2015 — a transfer that completely destroyed his relationship with many Liverpool supporters.At City, Sterling went on to enjoy huge success, winning 10 major trophies, including four Premier League titles.