Liverpool 'closing in' on double contract agreement ahead of Chelsea clash

Liverpool are said to be pushing to agree two new contracts as they prepare to face Chelsea on the other side of the international break. The Reds have enjoyed a superb start under new boss Arne Slot, currently at the top of the Premier League table, one point ahead of Arsenal and Manchester City.

The Reds have now won six on the bounce since losing to Nottingham Forest, and that has set up an intriguing clash with Chelsea at Anfield after the break, with the Blues having also started very well this season, currently just four points worse off.

Both teams have the best part of two weeks to prepare for the fixture with the international break now taking hold, and it seems Liverpool will use the time to agree two new contracts. Centre-back Ibrahima Konate looks set for new terms, having impressed since arriving at Anfield on a deal worth more than £30million back in 2021. His current contract is set to expire in 2026, but still only 25 years of age, Liverpool are keen to ensure he knows he is a key part of their plans going forward.

Transfer ‘insider’ Fabrizio Romano has tweeted: “Liverpool have opened talks over new deal for Ibrahima Konaté as he’s considered key part of the project. Discussions ongoing and expected to advance soon as Ibrahima is happy at Liverpool.”

Another contract that is close to being agreed is that of Jarrel Quansah. The 21-year-old has already made 18 senior league appearances, and while he is not out of contract until 2027, Liverpool want to give him a pay raise to reflect his importance to Slot, given he will still be on a young player’s deal. Romano added: “Liverpool are closing in on the agreement to extend Jarrel Quansah contract, new deal with pay rise ready. Quansah has already accepted to stay.”