Real Madrid has set its sights on England, where French center-back Ibrahima Konaté is entering the final year of his contract with Liverpool.
Real wants Konaté.
According to Fichajes, the Spanish giants have made initial contact with Konaté in preparation for a potential free transfer in the summer of 2026. Instead of paying a high transfer fee, Real Madrid is once again employing its familiar strategy—used previously with David Alaba, Kylian Mbappe, and most recently Trent Alexander-Arnold: approach early and convince the player not to renew with his current club.
The Real Madrid board has reportedly sent a clear message to Konaté, urging him not to extend his deal with Liverpool, in exchange for a pre-contract agreement waiting for him in January 2026. This early move allows Los Blancos to prepare both tactically and financially, while also avoiding competition from other top clubs.
Konaté is said to be dissatisfied with the renewal terms offered by Liverpool, and his decision to halt negotiations has raised concerns for the Merseyside club.
Xabi Alonso is believed to have approved the plan to sign Konaté. The young Spanish manager holds the 25-year-old defender’s qualities in high regard, especially his defensive skills, aerial ability, and pace. At Real Madrid, Konaté is expected to become a key figure alongside names like Eder Militao and Antonio Rudiger in the club’s long-term project.