Ibrahima Konate Liverpool transfer exit speculation sparked by Duolingo message

Rumours over a possible free transfer to Real Madrid forIbrahima Konate have ramped up after language-learning app Duolingo posted about the Liverpool star. The market-leading language app revealed that he 'is a member of our Spanish Diamond League!' — one of the app's top 'divisions' where users compete to show off their progress.

Many will interpret Konate's endeavours as preparation for a move to Real Madrid as he nears the final six months of his contract. Liverpool supporters were far from pleased when Trent Alexander-Arnold revealed he had been learning Spanish for months ahead of his own free transfer to Los Blancos being confirmed.

Maintaining a high rank on Duolingo sees users qualify for the Diamond Tournament. The top 10 learners in the Diamond League qualify, so perhaps Liverpool fans can take heart from Konate not being so committed to have reached that stage just yet.

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Konate is out of contract at Anfield next summer, and there has been little sign of an extension being signed. But reports in France suggest Liverpool have tabled another contract offer and it's said negotiations are in progress.

Perhaps the Frenchman will be able to utilise his blossoming Spanish skills as a bargaining tool, with persistent links to a move to the Bernabeu next summer. Konate is on Real Madrid's shortlist and the Spanish giants' interest will likely have increased after William Saliba signed a new deal at Arsenal.

At the very least, Konate may be able to offer Alexis Mac Allister some conversation in his native language, after Luis Diaz and Darwin Nunez both departed over the summer.

While Konate's Spanish linguistics may be improving, there may be concerns over his form with Liverpool. In the spotlight, the 26-year-old has struggled so far this term with a worrying outing against Galatasaray, and tough games against Bournemouth and Newcastle.

Reds boss Arne Slot has even been forced to comment on his form. "I think he has things he can improve," he said.

"But for him starting this season with a different full-back next to him probably is different as well. He and the team had Ryan Gravenberch in front of them for the first time against Newcastle.

So I think it's partly also adjustment to each other. And partly, I think the biggest strength of Ibou is of course his defensive quality.

"You could already see last season when he and Virgil were playing together, they mainly make sure Virgil doesn't get the ball, so he needs to bring the ball out of the back.

"That he does sometimes really, really, really good, but his consistency in that part is definitely something he can improve. But that will also improve the more we work together. The more he's used to the right full-back next to him, the more he's used to the other players that are in front of him as well."

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