© IMAGO
Football news expert Fabrizio Romano has provided an update on several major transfer stories ahead of this summer, including the latest on Liam Rosenior, Dominik Szoboszlai and John Stones.
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Liverpool contract updates
Liverpool will lose Andrew Robertson and Mohamed Salah on Bosman deals this summer, but Romano has confirmed that talks with Ibrahima Konate over a new contract have almost reached a conclusion.
Speaking on his latest YouTube video, Romano said: “I want to start with Liverpool because we have confirmation of the exclusive story I reported two weeks ago regarding Ibrahima Konate. Negotiations between the player and Liverpool are now in the final stages and progressing very well, with only a few final details left to clarify before both parties continue together despite recent denials.
“Konate has now spoken publicly and confirmed that the agreement is close. The reality is that the salary structure is almost agreed, so in terms of numbers, both the player and the club are aligned. What remains to be clarified are two key points: the length of the contract, which is still under discussion but not expected to be a dealbreaker, and the bonuses on top of the salary, including how they will be structured and activated within the new deal.
“Seeing the player speak openly in this way is extremely positive news for Liverpool. The expectation is that Konate will remain at the club, especially following the dramatic derby win against Everton.”
Romano continued: “Dominik Szoboszlai has also addressed his contract situation, but with a different tone. He stated that there has been no real progress on a new deal at this stage, while emphasising that he is happy at the club and that his current contract runs until 2028.
“My understanding is that negotiations between Szoboszlai and Liverpool are ongoing. They are not collapsed, nor are they at an advanced stage yet. The discussions are positive, and there is no significant gap between the parties, but more work is required before reaching the final stages, as Liverpool have done with Konate.
“So this is not a negative situation, but it does require time. Talks are continuing, and there is no reason to create unnecessary concern around this story at this stage.”
© IMAGO – Dominik Szoboszlai, LiverpoolJohn Stones to leave Man City
Meanwhile, Romano has confirmed that John Stones is widely expected to leave Manchester City when his contract expires at the end of June.
“The expectation, unless there is a late change, is that Stones will leave the club as a free agent at the end of the season,” the transfer expert revealed.
“It has been a difficult period for him due to injuries, but internally the feeling is that he is ready for a new chapter. With his contract situation and age in mind, he will assess all options alongside his family and representatives.
“At the moment, Man City expect Stones to depart at the end of the campaign. This could mark the conclusion of a significant and successful era, especially with other key figures such as Bernardo Silva also expected to move on.”
Chelsea stance on Liam Rosenior
Liam Rosenior has been heavily linked with the sack at Chelsea, despite public support from the club’s hierarchy, but Romano insists that he remains safe for now.
“The results have been disappointing, with no goals scored in the last four Premier League matches and four consecutive defeats. Despite this, the message from the club remains one of support for the manager, recognising the challenges of taking over mid-season without a pre-season.
“At the same time, Chelsea understand that results must improve quickly. They have not initiated discussions with alternative managers and continue to back Rosenior, but performances and outcomes must change to avoid increasing pressure in the coming months.”
© IMAGO – Liam Rosenior, ChelseaInter respond to Barcelona’s interest in Alessandro Bastoni
Finally, Romano provided an update on Barcelona’s interest in finalising a deal for Inter Milan defender Alessandro Bastoni this summer.
“Inter director Piero Ausilio has addressed the ongoing links with Barcelona, making it clear that any interested club should contact Inter directly rather than speaking through the media,” he said.
“Barcelona’s interest in Bastoni is genuine and confirmed, and they have held discussions with the player’s representatives. However, there have been no official negotiations between the clubs so far. Those conversations are expected to take place at a later stage.
“Inter’s position is firm. Bastoni remains under contract, is happy at the club, and is highly valued. The reported figures of €45-50 million are not accurate, as the club’s valuation is significantly higher.
“The situation will ultimately depend on how much Barcelona are willing and able to invest. While there is a positive feeling between Bastoni and Barcelona regarding potential personal terms, no agreement has been finalised. Club-to-club discussions have not yet begun, so patience will be required as this story develops.”
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