Real Madrid Set to Make Move for Liverpool Defender Ibrahima Konaté
In a surprising twist to the summer transfer window, reports from Spain suggest that Liverpool could soon bid farewell to French defender Ibrahima Konaté, as Real Madrid intensify their interest in securing his services. According to sources close to the Santiago Bernabéu, Los Blancos are desperate to bolster their defensive ranks and see Konaté as a prime target to partner with Éder Militão for the upcoming season.
Konaté, 25, has been a key figure for Liverpool since joining from RB Leipzig in 2021. Known for his strength, composure on the ball, and ability to recover quickly, the French international has become a reliable presence in Jürgen Klopp’s backline when fit. Despite his solid performances, Liverpool’s depth in central defense and Konaté’s occasional injury troubles have led to speculation that the club may consider letting him go—provided the offer is right.
Real Madrid are reportedly willing to spend big to secure a long-term replacement for veterans like David Alaba and Nacho Fernández, both of whom are entering the final stages of their careers. With Antonio Rüdiger also in the squad, Madrid are seeking to build a robust rotation capable of withstanding the challenges of La Liga and the UEFA Champions League. Konaté’s age and profile make him an ideal fit.
Liverpool, meanwhile, are not under financial pressure to sell but may be tempted if Madrid meet their valuation—believed to be in the range of €60–70 million. The Reds are currently undergoing a minor squad reshuffle under new manager Arne Slot, and it is unclear how Konaté fits into his long-term vision. While losing a player of his calibre would certainly be a blow, the club might see an opportunity to reinvest in other areas, including midfield and attacking depth.
For Konaté, a move to Real Madrid would represent a significant step. The allure of joining one of Europe’s most decorated clubs and playing alongside the likes of Jude Bellingham and Kylian Mbappé—whose transfer to Madrid has already been confirmed—could be hard to resist. Moreover, with the European Championship behind him, Konaté may feel the time is right to embrace a new challenge.
Liverpool fans are understandably divided on the news. While many appreciate Konaté’s contributions, others worry about the club’s growing list of defensive exits. With Joël Matip having already left on a free transfer this summer, losing Konaté would further reduce depth at center-back unless suitable reinforcements are brought in quickly.
No official bids have been confirmed as of yet, but the situation is developing rapidly. Real Madrid are expected to formalize their interest in the coming days, potentially triggering a domino effect in the transfer market. Should the deal go through, it would mark one of the most high-profile defensive moves of the summer.
As always, the final decision may rest with the player himself. Whether Konaté chooses to remain at Anfield or embark on a new journey in the Spanish capital will likely unfold soon, as the summer window heats up.
