Contract Uncertainties: Key Players Facing Critical Decisions

Liverpool is increasingly unfazed by the potential loss of Ibrahima Konate, as the center-back’s reputation has significantly declined during the Reds’ lackluster title defense in the first half of the 2025-26 season. Once a cornerstone of their Premier League victory last season, the France international has committed several high-profile errors, contributing to the team’s struggles this year.

Following a reckless foul resulting in a penalty against Leeds United, Konate’s coach, Arne Slot, remarked, “Unfortunately for him [Konate], he does a lot of things well, but he has been a bit too much at the crime scene.” This decline in form has notably jeopardized his previously assured transfer to Real Madrid in 2026, as the Spanish giants have opted not to pursue their long-standing interest in him. Konate expressed hope for clarity on his future, stating in November, “My agents continue to discuss with Liverpool. I hope my decision will be made very soon so I can announce it,” although he has denied receiving a new contract offer.

Bernardo Silva has toyed with the idea of leaving Manchester City for years, amid persistent links to both Barcelona and his boyhood club, Benfica. As he approaches the final months of his contract at the Etihad Stadium, the time for a move may finally be imminent. A trusted player under Pep Guardiola, the 31-year-old has seen his starting position challenged by a wave of younger talent, leading to questions about his dwindling impact on the game.

Despite these challenges, Silva’s skill set remains valuable in a slower-paced league that prioritizes technical prowess. He hinted at a potential departure at the conclusion of his contract, saying, “I have one year on my contract so obviously I can leave next season.” A sentimental return to Benfica seems plausible, while Barcelona may also reconsider their interest due to his age, particularly if he becomes available on a free transfer. Furthermore, reports suggest that clubs in Saudi Arabia are also monitoring his situation.

Concerns about Antonio Rudiger’s future at Real Madrid persist under Xabi Alonso’s management. Rumors suggested that Los Blancos have no intention of renewing the Germany international’s contract, given worries about his form during the Club World Cup and his long-term fitness, which were confirmed when a hamstring injury sidelined him for three months in September.

Despite this setback, Rudiger has started five consecutive La Liga matches upon his return, though reports indicate that he has yet to convince Alonso of his long-term viability in the defense, with new signing Dean Huijsen and Eder Militao being preferred. Current reports indicate that discussions about an extension have been deferred until early 2026, allowing Rudiger to negotiate with foreign clubs, while he evidently wishes to remain at the Bernabeu.

John Stones has been a dedicated player for Manchester City for nearly a decade, but injuries have plagued his career, affecting his standing at the club. Although he recently returned to full fitness after considering retirement last season, he has struggled for consistent playtime this term and suffered a thigh injury in early December.

City manager Pep Guardiola remarked, “The club will decide what is best for John, we will see how he performs. When John is fit, he is part of the group. However, he has not had the consistency in games due to numerous injuries, which complicates the situation for both him and the club.” There has been no discussion regarding a contract extension, and this latest injury may hinder Stones’ chances in negotiations.

Leon Goretzka, a long-standing figure at Bayern Munich, has fought his way back into contention under Vincent Kompany after facing potential relegation to the bench last season. He remains a starter in the first half of the current campaign, but his future remains uncertain as he enters the final six months of his contract, with the club reportedly seeking his successor.

While a January exit seems unlikely, with Kompany keen to retain Goretzka, Manchester United has been continuously mentioned as a possible destination. Unless Bayern’s decision changes, Goretzka may find himself moving on as his contract term nears its end.

Serge Gnabry, now 30, has had an inconsistent run at Bayern due to recurring injuries and fierce competition, leading to questions about his future with the club. Despite being a pivotal player during past seasons, he entered the final year of his contract with uncertainty surrounding his renewal. However, after a strong start to the new campaign with nine goal contributions in just 12 league appearances, Gnabry has re-established himself and reportedly received a new deal offer, potentially extending his stay for another two years.

The contract situation of Mike Maignan, AC Milan’s goalkeeper, remains ambiguous. Although he reportedly reached a verbal agreement for a two-year extension earlier in 2025, no formal updates have emerged as the new year approaches. The delay appears to stem from internal changes at San Siro and concerns over the France international’s previous performance.

There were close calls that nearly saw Maignan leave for Chelsea during the pre-Club World Cup transfer window, although a fee could not be agreed upon. As of now, he is free to negotiate a transfer with foreign clubs, though AC Milan insists they want to continue discussions to retain him. However, reports indicate he is not inclined to renew, leading Chelsea to consider a future approach.

Ruben Neves was once a standout player for Wolves before joining Al-Hilal in 2023, becoming one of the first stars of the Saudi Pro League. After two impactful seasons, including a title-winning campaign, he now finds himself in the last six months of his contract, having previously declined a lucrative renewal offer. Reports suggest Neves would accept a pay cut to return to Europe, with potential links to Manchester United and a heartfelt homecoming at Porto also discussed, though financial hurdles may exist.

Marc Guehi was almost transferred to Liverpool during the summer window, following extensive negotiations, but a last-minute call from Crystal Palace halted the deal as they couldn’t secure a suitable replacement. Now, his future remains uncertain as Liverpool continues to express interest, yet other clubs like Bayern Munich have opened talks, which could affect the potential for a January transfer.

Dayot Upamecano is experiencing a career renewal under the guidance of Kompany at Bayern Munich, showcasing his potential as he solidifies a strong partnership with Jonathan Tah. With his contract entering its final six months, Bayern is reportedly advancing discussions for a renewal until 2030, despite interest from clubs like Real Madrid and Liverpool, who may find his demands excessive. Unless circumstances change drastically, Upamecano is poised to remain at the Allianz Arena for the foreseeable future.