Real Madrid Explore Strategic Talks as Liverpool Outline Conditions for Potential Konaté Transfer Amid Defensive Overhaul
Real Madrid are reportedly weighing up a potential move for Liverpool centre-back Ibrahima Konaté as part of their long-term defensive strategy. The Spanish giants, well known for their meticulous transfer planning, have identified Konaté as a potential cornerstone for their backline in the coming years, as they begin to shape a new generation of talent behind their ageing core.
The 25-year-old French international has emerged as a subject of internal discussions at the Santiago Bernabéu, particularly as Madrid aim to future-proof their defense. With veteran figures like Nacho Fernández having departed and question marks lingering over the long-term fitness of David Alaba, Madrid’s technical department is actively surveying Europe’s elite for strong, athletic defenders who can partner Éder Militão or rotate in high-pressure Champions League scenarios.
Konaté, who joined Liverpool from RB Leipzig in 2021, has impressed with his strength, aerial presence, and composure on the ball. However, the Frenchman’s time at Anfield has also been marred by intermittent injury spells, which have prevented him from becoming a guaranteed starter alongside Virgil van Dijk. Despite this, his ceiling remains extremely high, and Madrid’s interest reflects a belief that a change of scenery and elite medical care could unlock his full potential.
Sources close to Liverpool suggest the Merseyside club are not actively looking to sell Konaté, who is still under contract until 2026. However, they have privately acknowledged that they would entertain discussions if a significant offer were tabled — potentially north of €60 million. Liverpool are currently undergoing their own defensive reshuffle under new head coach Arne Slot, who is assessing the suitability of various players for his preferred tactical system. Should they feel confident in their alternatives, or manage to bring in another defensive target, they might consider cashing in on Konaté if the terms are right.
For Madrid, the possible pursuit of Konaté fits within a broader context of targeting younger players with top-level experience. Having recently secured the services of Kylian Mbappé and bolstered their midfield with the likes of Jude Bellingham and Eduardo Camavinga, the club’s hierarchy is now focusing on reinforcing the back line with players entering their prime.
Florentino Pérez and chief scout Juni Calafat are reportedly taking a cautious but proactive approach, ensuring any potential moves are financially and structurally sound. Konaté’s relatively young age, Champions League pedigree, and familiarity with high-press football make him a compelling candidate for Carlo Ancelotti’s squad — though it remains to be seen whether Liverpool will ultimately budge.
As it stands, no formal offer has been submitted, and negotiations — if they progress — are expected to be complex. But with Madrid continuing to position themselves for long-term success and Liverpool open to recalibrating under a new regime, Konaté may yet become the subject of one of this summer’s more intriguing transfer sagas.