Real Madrid have been following Ibrahima Konaté for some time with a view to the future. Rüdiger and Alaba are coming to the end of their contracts and the defense needs strengthening, but what we saw in the match against PSG has opened up the possibility that the Whites will reinforce their defense this summer, and in that sense, the Liverpool player has always been at the top of the list.
Konaté’s situation at Liverpool
Ibrahima Konaté began the final year of his contract on July 1. He is a player who is very popular at Real Madrid, who are following him closely as he will be a free transfer, although there will undoubtedly be costs in the form of a signing bonus.
The center back has rejected Liverpool’s first contract renewal offer, according to The Guardian. Apparently, the French player has been disappointed by the club’s proposal and could be rethinking his future in England.
“Konaté is disappointed with Liverpool’s contract renewal offer and is now stuck in negotiations. Liverpool are starting to fear that he will do the same as Alexander-Arnold and leave for free in 2026,” said the source. The scenario is ideal for the Whites to start taking steps in this direction.
Konaté wants to play for Real Madrid
The player seems determined to play for the Whites and the deal is progressing. There are two options on the table: the preferred option is to reach the end of the season without paying a transfer fee or to bring the decision forward and pay Liverpool for the player to strengthen a defense that has made serious mistakes during the tournament.
According to Cadena SER, Liverpool are seriously considering selling him this summer if he continues to refuse to renew.
The player only wants to sign for Real Madrid. In this regard, Diario AS reports that the Whites are considering this possibility and are willing to pay between €20 million and €25 million for Ibrahima Konaté this summer, but no more.
However, according to the same source, Liverpool wants at least €50 million for Ibrahima Konaté this summer. Real Madrid are not considering paying that, as they now know that Konaté has decided to sign for them anyway. They plan to sign him for free in 2026, unless Liverpool lower their price now. Real Madrid’s idea is to sign Ibrahima Konaté as a free agent next summer. However, if a defender is sold, signing him this summer is a real possibility.
Real Madrid needs a center back
His arrival is seen as very necessary for the team for several reasons. To begin with, Real Madrid fears a repeat of this season’s multiple injuries. In addition, it remains to be seen what level and performance Eder Militao will offer after his long injury. On the other hand, Rüdiger and Alaba’s contracts expire next summer, and their age and physical condition raise questions about their continuity and, above all, whether they are at the level to compete this season. Against PSG, the German made a mistake uncharacteristic of his experience, which was compounded by Asencio’s poor World Cup performance, casting doubt on his place in the starting lineup and potentially accelerating the arrival of a replacement.