Liverpool scouting centre-back options as Konate's future comes under question

Konate (right) looks set to leave Liverpool this summer

Liverpool are increasingly preparing for the possibility of life without Ibrahima Konate as uncertainty over his contract situation drags on.

Talks over a new deal have failed to reach a breakthrough so far and sources indicate that an exit is now emerging as the most likely outcome.

Liverpool have made their position clear and even if the player shows a willingness0to re-enter talks, there is no intention to improve on the terms they have already discussed.

With that stance set, attention is turning towards potential replacements.

Liverpool moved early to secure young defender Jeremy Jacquet, but recruitment plans are not going to stop there. The club are seriously considering re-entering the market for another central defender if Konate departs.

One name we have revealed to be high on the shortlist is Tottenham’s Micky van de Ven, who is viewed internally as a strong fit for the system and profile Liverpool want moving forward.

Nottingham Forest’s Murillo is also of interest from within the Premier League, while Borussia Dortmund’s Nico Schlotterbeck has been touted as an option.

Konate’s future is attracting significant and high profile interest. Real Madrid’s admiration for the defender is long-standing and well established, while we understand there is also a developing possibility of a move to Saudi Arabia.

Such a switch could mirror the route expected to be taken by Mohamed Salah, who is also facing an uncertain future at Anfield.

Liverpool are also keeping a close eye on other long-term options and one scenario under consideration is triggering a 352million buy-back clause for Jarell Quansah.

For now, Liverpool’s defensive plans hinge on Konate’s next move - but preparations are clearly underway to replace the French international.

Dean Jones