Ibrahima Konate admits it is "logical" that links would be drawn with PSG but he has no plans to leave Liverpool.

The French centre-half was dislodged as first choice towards the end of last season with youngster Jarell Quansah coming in and establishing himself alongside Virgil van Dijk. Konate was signed in 2021, but a reduction in his minutes has fuelled talk of a move away.

Given his Paris associations a switch to the Parc des Princes has been touted, but Konate himself is more than happy at Anfield as he seeks to win back his starting berth.

He told RMC Sport : "I'm happy at Liverpool so my head is there. I don't even think about it. I am focused on the pitch and the Euros this summer. It's a bit logical because I was born in France and in Paris. I have six older brothers and they all support PSG. We watched a lot of matches together and I went to the stadium a lot when I was younger.

"There is a little story with PSG but I made my own. I played at Sochaux, then Leipzig before Liverpool. I am happy there and I am not paying too much attention."

The arrival of Arne Slot is likely to result in some changes with the Dutchman coming in with his own ideas. Van Dijk is expected to remain one of the team's leading lights with the man partnering him subject to debate. Joe Gomez is another option going forward but Joel Matip has departed.

Konate, despite his dismissal of a switch to PSG, just months ago admitted that playing for them has been on his mind. He responded: "If I said no, I'd be lying, but if you're asking, is it one of my objectives. Not at all." The Frenchman added: "PSG has made sure to recruit players who understand each other well and who play with each other for the France national team.

Jarell Quansah ended the season as Virgil van Dijk's centre-half partner (
Image:
REX/Shutterstock)

"Even for the people and the Parisian fans, it makes them happy. It’s what they’ve been waiting for for years, having Parisian players or at least French players in the team."

In terms of arrivals, Liverpool are reportedly prepping a bid for Aston Villa's Ollie Watkins. The England striker has just enjoyed his best campaign to date and is seen as the ideal replacement for Darwin Nunez, who could be moved on after two inconsistent years at Anfield.

Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.