Liverpool plot shock move for Leeds stopper as Konate future hangs in the balance

February 24, 2026 Aksel Kryhlmand

Liverpool are weighing up defensive reinforcements ahead of the summer window, with questions still unresolved over Ibrahima Konate’s long term future at Anfield.

According to Transfersdotcom, the Merseyside club have been keeping close tabs on Leeds United defender Jaka Bijol as part of their forward planning. The report suggests recruitment staff are assessing alternatives should Konate leave when his current deal runs out at the end of the season.

Contract uncertainty drives recruitment checks

Konate remains an important figure in Liverpool’s back line, but stalled negotiations have prompted internal discussions about depth and succession planning. While no departure has been confirmed, the possibility of losing a starting centre back has pushed the club to scan the market.

Bijol, a Slovenia international, is among the names under consideration. At 26, he is viewed as entering his prime years, offering a blend of physical strength and composure in possession that suits the demands of Premier League football.

Why Jaka Bijol fits the profile

Since joining Leeds United, Bijol has established himself as a consistent presence in central defence. He has earned praise for his aerial ability, positional awareness and willingness to play out from the back, traits Liverpool typically value in their defenders.

Those qualities, combined with his age profile, make him a viable medium term option rather than a short term stopgap. Recruitment decisions, however, would depend on several variables, including Konate’s contract outcome and Leeds United’s valuation of the player.

Leeds stance and Liverpool planning

Any potential move would require negotiation. Leeds United are unlikely to entertain a reduced fee without strong incentive, particularly if they see Bijol as central to their own ambitions.

For Liverpool, the interest appears to be precautionary rather than reactive. Monitoring emerging options before the window opens allows the club to act decisively if circumstances change.

Sources: Transfersdotcom