Liverpool may be heading toward another major contract dispute — this time involving French centre-back Ibrahima Konaté. With just one year remaining on his current contract, the 25-year-old has yet to agree on an extension, despite multiple offers from the club. This has reportedly caught the attention of Real Madrid, who are closely monitoring the situation.
Another Contract Crisis for Liverpool?
The uncertainty around Konaté’s future comes not long after Trent Alexander-Arnold’s surprising free transfer to Real Madrid. Now, the Spanish club is said to be exploring a similar route with Konaté — potentially negotiating a cut-price deal this summer or waiting to sign him for free when his contract expires in 2026.
According to Spanish outlets like MARCA and AS, Konaté has told Liverpool he’s open to a possible move to the Bernabéu. Meanwhile, Diario Sport reports that Real Madrid could include Brazilian forward Rodrygo in a potential deal, should Liverpool be willing to talk.
While the idea of a player swap is still speculative, Liverpool’s reported interest in Rodrygo makes the scenario plausible — especially if Konaté indicates he won’t extend his stay at Anfield.
Madrid’s Backline Overhaul: Wait or Strike?
After a heavy 4-0 defeat to PSG in the Club World Cup semi-final, Real Madrid’s defense has come under scrutiny. Veterans like Rüdiger have been criticized, and while young talents such as Dean Huijsen and Raul Asencio offer promise, there are still concerns about their overall defensive stability.
New head coach Xabi Alonso is believed to see Konaté as a key long-term addition but isn’t expected to push for a deal unless Liverpool reduce their €50 million (£43m) asking price. Madrid’s current valuation sits at around €20–25 million.
This mirrors the situation with Alexander-Arnold, where Madrid initially hoped to wait for his contract to run out but ended up paying a fee to secure him early. Having succeeded once, Madrid appears confident they can repeat the strategy with Konaté — if not now, then by next summer.
Liverpool’s Tough Decision: Cash In or Risk a Free Exit
With new manager Arne Slot at the helm, Liverpool are keen to avoid another major departure without compensation. Losing Alexander-Arnold for nothing has already been a significant setback. Letting Konaté leave in the same fashion would raise serious concerns about the club’s handling of key contracts.
Though Konaté remains vital to Liverpool’s defense, the club is reportedly looking at alternatives, with Crystal Palace’s Marc Guéhi emerging as a possible target. Replacing Konaté won’t be straightforward, but if he refuses to renew, selling him this summer — even at a discount — may be Liverpool’s best option.
What Lies Ahead?
Pre-season developments will be crucial. If Konaté rejoins the squad with no signs of extending his contract, pressure will mount on Liverpool to make a decisive move. Real Madrid, on the other hand, seem willing to play the long game — a strategy that has already worked in their favor once this summer.
As always, it’s wise to treat transfer news from Spanish media cautiously, as reports often reflect club agendas. Still, the speculation surrounding Konaté is intensifying — and his future at Anfield is far from certain.
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