LIVERPOOL, April 21 -- Ibrahima Konate has revealed he is close to agreeing a new contract to stay at Liverpool beyond the end of the season.

The French defender is in the final months of his current deal and there had been rumours suggesting he was going to join Real Madrid on a free transfer.

However, interest in Konate cooled after a poor start to this season and he is set to extend his five-year stay at Anfield.

"For a long time we have spoken with the club and we are close to an agreement," said the 26-year-old after Liverpool's 2-1 Merseyside derby win over Everton.

"I think everyone wished for that for as long as possible but we are in a good way. For sure there is a big chance I'm here next season. This is what I always wanted...