Don't be like Trent — Ex-Red warns new Liverpool contract rebel

Former Liverpool forward Ryan Babel implored defender Ibrahima Konate to continue at Anfield amid keen interest from LALIGA giants Real Madrid. 

As Pulse Sports reported, Konate is stalling on a new contract with Liverpool, raising concerns within the club about another key player potentially running down their deal after Trent left to join Real Madrid on a free transfer.

The French defender will enter the final year of his current contract next month and has rejected the Reds’ initial extension offer.

The 26-year-old is said to be dissatisfied with the structure of the club’s offer, which heavily relies on performance targets, with his representatives pushing for a higher basic wage.’

During a recent interview, Babel, who also wore the red of Liverpool between 2007 to 2011, discouraged Konate from leaving Liverpool for Real Madrid as Trent did. 

Babel admitted that Real Madrid were the superior club but argued that the Frenchman would feel more fulfilled playing at the Kop. 

“Ibrahima Konate should stay at Liverpool,” Babel said, per Goal. “Real Madrid is the biggest club in the world, but I’m not sure you can enjoy playing there because of the pressure and expectation on your shoulders.

“Liverpool is a huge football club and are one big family; everyone looks after each other. You can still earn the best money playing for Liverpool, and you’re playing in the best league in the world. What more could you want?

“As far as competing to be the best, Liverpool play a great style of football as well. I saw a similar style to Liverpool while watching Paris Saint-Germain against Madrid in the Club World Cup semi-final; PSG dominated the game! 

“If you join Real, you might be going to the best club in the world, but they are definitely not the best team, and I can’t see them becoming the best team in the next couple of years.

“If I was in Konate’s position, I’d ask myself why I’d want to leave the best club in the world?”