A potential swap deal between Liverpool and Real Madrid is beginning to take shape—one that could benefit both Arne Slot and Xabi Alonso as they lead their respective sides into a new era.
Liverpool will kick off the 2025/26 Premier League season as reigning champions, having clinched their 20th league title with ease during Slot’s impressive debut campaign. The club has already made several key signings this summer, including Florian Wirtz and Jeremie Frimpong from Bayer Leverkusen, Freddie Woodman from Preston North End, and Milos Kerkez from Bournemouth.
However, Liverpool’s transfer activity appears far from complete. On July 15, David Ornstein of The Athletic reported that the Reds had expressed interest in Newcastle striker Alexander Isak, although no formal bid has been made.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid have also undergone significant changes, with Carlo Ancelotti stepping aside and Xabi Alonso taking over as manager. In response to a trophyless 2024/25 season, Madrid have brought in Trent Alexander-Arnold, Dean Huijsen, and former Manchester United defender Alvaro Carreras.
Despite Alexander-Arnold’s move already being finalized, the two clubs may not be done dealing. A possible swap involving Liverpool’s Ibrahima Konaté and Madrid winger Rodrygo could be mutually beneficial.
On July 14, journalist Fabrizio Romano revealed that Real Madrid have shown interest in signing Konaté on a free transfer when his contract ends in 2026. “There’s real interest,” Romano stated, while noting that no official offer has been made yet out of respect for the player’s current deal.
Konaté, 26, played a crucial role in Liverpool’s title-winning campaign and remains under contract until June 2026.
Rodrygo, 24, is reportedly on the radar of several Premier League clubs including Arsenal and Chelsea. Despite being tied to Madrid until 2028, he struggled for consistent minutes under Ancelotti late last season. According to This Is Anfield, he’s currently valued at approximately €100 million (£86.6m).
For now, the idea of a swap deal remains speculative, with no concrete reports confirming such a plan is underway. However, if negotiations were to advance, Madrid might seek additional cash as part of the exchange, given Rodrygo’s longer contract and higher market value.
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