Liverpool may be weighing up an unexpected approach in the January 2026 transfer window that involves centre-back Ibrahima Konaté.
With the defender entering the final months of his contract and no renewal agreed, uncertainty around his future has intensified, prompting some observers to suggest the club could consider a swap deal instead of a conventional transfer.
Former Liverpool forward Stan Collymore has floated the idea of a potential exchange with Aston Villa, which would see Konaté move to Villa Park while Ezri Konsa heads to Anfield.
Collymore argues such a move could address multiple concerns at once, allowing Liverpool to strengthen defensively while avoiding the risk of losing Konaté for nothing when his deal expires in the summer.
The proposal is rooted in questions over Konaté’s consistency this season and the lack of clarity surrounding his long-term role at the club.
By comparison, Konsa has earned praise for his composure, positional discipline, and overall dependability at the back, making him an appealing option for Liverpool.
At present, there have been no indications of formal discussions between the two clubs, and the concept remains purely speculative, driven by pundit opinion rather than concrete interest from either side.
Liverpool are believed to be approaching the January window cautiously, focusing on maintaining balance and making calculated additions rather than dramatic changes.
With Konaté nearing free agency and previously linked to European heavyweights such as Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain, Liverpool face a delicate decision between securing his future or preparing for a potential departure.
