Konaté drops transfer bombshell: Tells Liverpool he could join Madrid now

 

EXCLUSIVE: KONATE TELLS LIVERPOOL HE WANTS REAL MADRID MOVE THIS SUMMER - REDS MAY SELL TO AVOID TRENT REPEAT

Ibrahima Konaté is entering the final year of his contract at Liverpool and has informed the club that he is open to a summer departure — but only if Real Madrid come calling.

The 26-year-old French centre-back has grown into a key figure at Anfield since his arrival from RB Leipzig in 2021. However, with Liverpool now undergoing a period of transition under new management, Konaté is weighing up his long-term future. While he's not pushing to leave, sources close to the situation suggest the defender would seriously consider a move — but only to the Spanish capital.

Konaté is said to admire Real Madrid’s project, their track record of competing for major honours, and the opportunity to play alongside international teammates in one of Europe’s most prestigious squads. With just one year remaining on his current deal, Liverpool face a crucial decision: attempt to tie him down with a new contract, or consider selling now to avoid losing him on a free next summer.

So far, Real Madrid have not made an official approach. However, they are in the market for a central defender to strengthen depth behind the pairing of Éder Militão and Antonio Rüdiger, especially with Nacho Fernández’s recent departure. Konaté fits the profile Madrid are believed to be targeting — young, experienced, and athletic.

Liverpool, for their part, are open to holding contract talks but will not stand in the way of a move if the right offer arrives. The club remains firm on its valuation of the player, and any negotiation would likely require a significant fee, even with just a year left on his deal.

As it stands, Konaté will report for pre-season with Liverpool, but the situation is expected to develop quickly if Real Madrid choose to formalize their interest in the coming weeks.