Liverpool news: Arne Slot makes Hugo Ekitike demand as star's agent in exit talks

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There's a renewed feel-good feeling around Liverpool, who head into their league clash with Manchester City with the utmost confidence. The Reds secured a 1-0 victory against Real Madrid in the Champions League on Tuesday to mark back-to-back victories across all competitions for the first time since September.

On top of the positive result, it was yet another improved performance from Arne Slot 's side, who appear to be on the right track after a run of six defeats in seven games. The 2-0 win over Aston Villa which preceded their European triumph lifted the reigning league champions to third in the table, but they remain seven points behind league leaders Arsenal .

With an improved morale surrounding Anfield, the Reds can finally look forward but face another stern test on Sunday as they travel to the Etihad Stadium to take on Pep Guardiola's side.

Ahead of the clash involving the two clubs that have gone head-to-head for almost a decade, Hugo Ekitike has been challenged to improve by his manager, while Ibrahima Konate's uncertain future once again hits the headlines as Mirror Football takes a look at the latest news surrounding the Merseyside giants.

The Frenchman has been one of Liverpool's best players since arriving at the club in a £79million deal in July. With six goals to his name across all competitions, he is currently the Reds' top scorer.

With his unique set of skills including a near-perfect touch, his ability to link up with team-mates and excellent finishing ability, the 23-year-old looks set to be a major part of Liverpool's attacking force for years to come.

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While he's been subject to widespread praise from fans and media alike, Slot has admitted the striker must improve his winning rate in aerial duels given his 6ft 3in frame. Speaking in his pre-match press conference, the Dutchman said: "That is what makes him special, if you’re that tall and your footwork is as good as his.

"That’s what makes him special, if you’re so tall, he needs to be stronger in duels." Ekitike hasn't been as prolific in the air as he has been with the ball at his feet. According to FotMob , in the 11 aerial duels he's challenged for in the Premier League , he's won just 37.9% of them.

After what was a poor start to the season for Ibrahima Konate, the France international has recently showcased why the Reds are aiming to secure his future with his contract expiring next summer .

In a similar situation to that of Virgil van Dijk, Mohamed Salah and Trent Alexander-Arnold last season, time is ticking for the champions to agree a new deal with the centre-back. Given his status as one of Europe's best defenders, Konate certainly isn't short of options, with Bayern Munich reportedly one of the parties interested in him.

According to Bild , the German champions have identified the Frenchman to replace his compatriot, Dayot Upamecano, if they fail to retain the 27-year-old, whose contract also expires at the end of the season. And his agent is said to be in talks with not only them, but also PSG and Real Madrid .

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Liverpool fans can at least take solace in the comments of Bayern sporting director Christoph Freund, who stated the club are hopeful to re-sign Upamecano. "It’s no secret that our main goal is to extend Upa’s contract," he said on Friday.

"There are probably a lot of clubs interested in him – he’s one of the best centre-backs in the world . Our aim is for him to stay with us for a long time. He feels very, very much at home here. We’re in discussions, but there’s nothing new to report."

The Manchester United legend made headlines for his criticism of Van Dijk, having taken aim at the Dutchman's leadership during their losing run. The 34-year-old made a point to confront Rooney on live TV for Amazon Prime following the Real Madrid victory.

Questioning the Englishman over his suggestions that he had become complacent following his new contract earlier this year, he told Rooney: "I think if you would watch games, then [you'd see] I would definitely take the responsibility. I think the comment that I signed my new deal and then it's like, you know, that's it and let it slide. I think that was a bit...."

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While Rooney insisted he was correct in stating Van Dijk's performances had been below par, he did understand why the defender was miffed by criticism. Speaking on his BBC Sport podcast: "I thought he was good that night, and I had loads of people say, 'Oh, when he came up to you,' I think fair play to him for coming out.

"I think Van Dijk, his issue was – maybe I was a bit unfair on that because I don't know him as a person. I said he got his new contract and he looked like down to it a little bit. So maybe I was a little bit unfair on that comment, but from a performance point of view, I think I was speaking what I felt and what I was seeing, and I think I was right on them."

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