Overview
- Konaté said after Sunday's 2-1 win at Everton that talks on an extension are close and he expects to stay next season, though no deal has been announced.
- The France defender is out of contract this summer and said he has been negotiating with sporting director Richard Hughes, noting the club often finalizes key renewals late.
- Konaté had been linked with Real Madrid, but recent reports said their interest cooled, which eased outside pressure on the negotiations.
- Retaining him would likely reduce the need for another centre-back, with Jeremy Jacquet joining in the summer and Giovanni Leoni set to return from an ACL injury.
- After a difficult season marked by his father's death, Konaté said he is ready to take on a bigger leadership role as long-serving teammates prepare to move on.