Borussia Mönchengladbach have reportedly extended Manu Kone’s contract, making a January transfer “impossible” for Liverpool, among others.
According to the Rheinische Post, Foals have activated an option in the midfielder’s contract, extending Kone’s contract with the Bundesliga club until 2026.
According to the report, this decision prevented the young Frenchman from leaving in the January transfer window, with Liverpool heavily linked with a move for Kone this summer.
Hailed as a “phenomenal” player by former Premier League goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer, Kone is considered by many to be one of the Bundesliga’s most exciting talents.
And for Liverpool, the midfielder would have been an ideal signing to add to their squad, even after the major overhaul of the position this summer.
Kone could have been perfect with Jürgen Klopp, but a January transfer is now impossible after Gladbach’s latest decision. Liverpool can now completely detach themselves from Kone
Kone has been one of several midfielders heavily linked with a move to Liverpool this summer and, while the youngster’s potential is clear, the Reds are expected to move away from the Gladbach star.
As we know, Liverpool have completely revamped their midfield this off-season, and while a new signing in this position could be ideal, there are better options than Kone.
Furthermore, Kone’s contract extension means his price will increase, which will dissuade Liverpool from a potential transfer in 2024.
Journalist describes Qatar’s attitude towards Liverpool after failed Man Utd takeover
Qatar reportedly still has cash to take over a Premier League club, while Liverpool are said to be on the Middle East state’s agenda.
According to the Daily Mail’s Mikel Keegan, Qatar has committed up to $8 billion (£6.5 billion) to buy an English club.
It was recently announced that the deal to buy Manchester United had fallen through.
As a result, Liverpool could now be on Qatar’s radar, with the Arab state still keen to follow in Saudi Arabia’s footsteps and buy one of the Premier League’s most famous teams.
Keegan said: “I know they have committed $8 billion to this project. The money is there and can be used. This will burn a hole in their pockets.
“What a story it would be if they wanted it.” I understand that they are very disappointed and upset with the way this has played out.
“What better way to respond than to later go to United’s biggest rivals and use all the money you wanted to invest in United to make them pay for their decision not to sell you.”
Nation-state involvement in football is a worrying trend that shows no signs of slowing, and Liverpool fans should hope that a Qatari takeover is off the table.
Even if there is interest in new owners replacing FSG, few supporters will accept a nation-state like Qatar buying Liverpool, given the reported human rights abuses. Indeed,
Liverpool fans know that a change at the top is needed, but as the situation is not as desperate as that of United fans, they need to make sure they are against an offer from Qatar.
