Real Madrid have reportedly reached an agreement to sign Liverpool’s centre-back Ibrahima Konate as one of their premier acquisitions in 2026, Spanish sources suggest. Konate’s current contract with the Reds is set to expire at the conclusion of the season, and despite numerous efforts by Liverpool to retain him, the French defender has yet to commit to an extension. Renowned transfer expert Fabrizio Romano recently provided an update on the situation.
Romano shared on his YouTube channel, “There are ongoing conversations between Liverpool and Konate regarding a new contract, but no consensus has been reached. Last year, talks were quite advanced, almost nearing a verbal agreement, yet things took a turn around December and January. Since then, negotiations have stalled without any resolution.”
Real Madrid, who have long admired Konate’s defensive prowess, see him as an ideal candidate to bolster their backline and potentially replace ageing defenders such as David Alaba and Antonio Rudiger. Reports from Fichajes indicate that Los Blancos have almost sealed the deal for Konate, alongside Nico Paz from Como, after engaging in weeks of negotiations.
The prospective transfer for the 26-year-old is not just seen as a strategic move for building a younger, more versatile defence but also as a nod to the club’s future, one that has been endorsed by head coach Xabi Alonso. As speculations about Konate’s move circulate, he stands as a figure who comfortably fits Real Madrid’s vision for a generational renewal at the heart of their defence.
Meanwhile, Marca has described Madrid’s interest in Konate as an “open secret,” especially after he reportedly turned down Liverpool’s third contract offer. The question now is whether Real Madrid will finalise a pre-contract agreement with Konate in January or negotiate a deal before his current contract runs out.
In recent memory, Liverpool supporters endured the departure of Trent Alexander-Arnold to Madrid, a move that ruffled feathers among the fan base. Should Konate follow suit, the reaction could be more pronounced. The move symbolises a potential shift at Liverpool, with the club hoping to stymie further leaks of their star players to Real Madrid.
In related developments, Manchester City are also reportedly eyeing Nico Paz, though Real Madrid’s buy-back clause places them in a favourable position to land the midfielder, suggesting the Spanish giants’ long-standing tradition of securing top talent remains intact.
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