Liverpool Face Fresh Real Madrid Interest as Konaté Joins Transfer Radar
Real Madrid’s Interest Extends Beyond Alexander-Arnold
Liverpool’s battles with Real Madrid are rarely confined to the pitch. While the Spanish giants’ long-standing pursuit of Trent Alexander-Arnold has been well-documented, The Daily Mail reports that they have now added Ibrahima Konaté to their growing wishlist.
With Alexander-Arnold’s contract running down, Madrid are reportedly confident of luring him to the Bernabéu on a free transfer. Now, Florentino Pérez’s sights have also turned to Konaté, whose contract expires in 2026. Liverpool have been in discussions with the French defender’s representatives, but no agreement has been reached, leaving the door open for potential suitors.
Madrid are known for their patience in transfer dealings, and they could opt to play the waiting game, much like they did with Kylian Mbappé. Paris Saint-Germain are also monitoring Konaté, though a move to the French capital appears less likely at this stage.
A Key Figure at Anfield
Since arriving from RB Leipzig in 2021 for £36 million, Konaté has established himself as a pivotal part of Liverpool’s defence. Despite starting this season on the bench in favour of Jarell Quansah, he has since reasserted himself alongside Virgil van Dijk, forming a formidable centre-back pairing.
Beyond his defensive qualities, Konaté is an influential presence in the dressing room. His teammates regard him as the squad’s ‘class clown’, known for his humour and ability to keep spirits high. That role has been invaluable, particularly during Liverpool’s resurgence under Arne Slot.
Contract Uncertainty Raises Concerns
While there are no clear indications that Konaté is actively seeking a move, his unresolved contract situation presents a challenge for Liverpool. At 25, he is entering his prime years, and with clubs like Madrid and PSG showing interest, the lack of an extension could make him a tempting target.
Liverpool must act swiftly if they are to fend off Madrid’s advances. Losing Alexander-Arnold on a free transfer would be a significant blow, but allowing Konaté’s situation to drift into uncertainty could leave them vulnerable to yet another high-profile exit.
What Next for Liverpool?
The situation remains in Liverpool’s hands for now. If contract negotiations progress positively, they will have nothing to worry about. However, the longer it drags on, the more likely Madrid will sense an opportunity to strike.
A decisive summer awaits for the Reds.
Our View – Anfield Index Analysis
For Liverpool fans, this latest development is far from welcome. The club already faces an uphill battle to keep Trent Alexander-Arnold, and now Real Madrid’s growing interest in Ibrahima Konaté only adds to the concern.
Losing one key defender would be bad enough, but the possibility of losing both in quick succession could be disastrous. Konaté has been a vital partner to Virgil van Dijk, offering the pace and physicality that perfectly complements the Dutchman’s leadership at the back. Letting his contract run down would be an unnecessary risk, especially with Madrid’s track record of poaching top talent.
The club needs to move quickly to secure his future. Liverpool can ill afford another drawn-out contract saga like the one surrounding Alexander-Arnold. Real Madrid, as ever, will play the long game, and the longer Liverpool hesitate, the more power they hand to Pérez and his recruitment team.
PSG’s interest might not seem as pressing, but any club with serious financial resources should be considered a threat. If Liverpool are serious about maintaining their defensive strength, they must finalise Konaté’s new contract before the whispers from Spain become something far more concrete.
With Arne Slot looking to build his vision for the future, keeping hold of his best players is non-negotiable. Konaté’s renewal must be a priority before Madrid turn speculation into action.
