Reds defender snubs big-money exit amid Real Madrid interest | OneFootball

Konate Rejects Saudi Offer as Real Madrid Monitor Contract Stand-Off

Defender signals desire to stay in Europe

Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate has turned down an offer from the Saudi Pro League, according to the Mirror. The French centre-back, who has entered the final year of his contract at Anfield, remains committed to playing in Europe and is focused on competing at the highest level.

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The report states that Konate “rebuffed the chance to sit down at the negotiating table” with the unnamed Saudi club and instead reaffirmed his desire to remain in top-tier European football. Despite Liverpool’s interest in extending his deal, discussions have stalled, with no progress reported in recent months.

Real Madrid keep tabs on contract situation

With the standoff unresolved, Real Madrid are closely monitoring the situation. The Spanish club are said to be weighing up a free transfer move and are aware Konate would be eligible to negotiate a pre-contract agreement from 1 January.

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Konate’s decision to reject an immediate exit suggests he may be targeting a long-term move to one of Europe’s elite clubs rather than seeking a lucrative switch elsewhere. The report also noted Real Madrid “are thought to be eyeing Konate on a free transfer.”

Centre-back planning continues

Liverpool are now expected to explore options at centre-back, especially following the £35 million sale of Jarell Quansah to Bayer Leverkusen. The club remain open to recruiting in that area before the transfer window closes, with Konate’s future unresolved.

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Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

For Liverpool fans, Konate’s decision to turn down a Saudi approach will come as welcome news. It shows that he remains focused on competing at the top level, and whatever his long-term future, he is not chasing short-term rewards. That level of professionalism is something to respect, particularly in an era where big money often dictates movement.

Still, the lack of progress on a new deal is cause for concern. Konate has the potential to anchor Liverpool’s defence for years to come, and letting him walk away on a free would be a significant blow. Real Madrid’s interest will not fade, especially if they continue to see him as a long-term replacement for their ageing backline.

It now falls on the Liverpool hierarchy to either convince him to stay or prepare for a future without him. Given the recent sale of Quansah, reinforcements at centre-back feel like a matter of urgency, not just insurance.

There is hope Konate can be persuaded, but it is increasingly clear this one could run deep into the season.