Real Madrid eyeing potential swap deal for Ibou Konate | OneFootball

Real Madrid Propose Diaz in Swap for Konate Amid Contract Uncertainty

Real Madrid are reportedly considering a player-plus-cash deal in an attempt to lure Ibrahima Konate from Liverpool this summer. The report, which originates from Fichajes, suggests Los Blancos are prepared to include Brahim Diaz alongside a financial offer of €10 million (£8.7m) in order to accelerate negotiations.

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While there had been speculation around Liverpool’s interest in Rodrygo, this proposal focuses instead on Diaz, with the Spanish club aiming to take advantage of Konate’s unresolved contract situation. The French defender is now in the final year of his current deal, which has prompted Real Madrid to explore possibilities for an early transfer rather than wait to sign him on a free in 2026.

Real Madrid’s interest grows amid Konate contract delay

According to Fichajes, Madrid view Konate as a key target, with the 25-year-old emerging as a long-term defensive solution. With Liverpool yet to finalise a contract extension, the La Liga side believe they can structure a deal that appeals to both parties.

“Konate’s delicate contract situation could open the door to a mutually beneficial deal,” the report states. While Liverpool continue discussions with the defender’s representatives, the timing of Madrid’s approach will be noted carefully by the Reds’ hierarchy.

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Diaz inclusion fails to address Liverpool’s defensive needs

Brahim Diaz is regarded as a versatile option who can operate across the front line or in attacking midfield. However, this proposal does little to resolve Liverpool’s current defensive fragility. With Arne Slot relying on a relatively thin group of senior centre-backs, any departure of Konate would necessitate an immediate and high-quality replacement.

While Diaz has impressed in recent seasons, Liverpool are not short of options in his favoured roles. Mo Salah continues to command the right flank, with backup available in the form of Federico Chiesa and Ben Doak, among others. Diaz’s addition would therefore add depth rather than solve a priority issue.

Liverpool expected to reject proposed swap deal

The club’s stance on Konate is expected to remain firm. With the defender viewed as integral to both the present and future of the back line, there is no appetite to weaken the squad without a suitable replacement lined up.

From Liverpool’s perspective, the idea of including Diaz as part of the package, while offering modest financial compensation, does not reflect the value they place on Konate. As Fichajes outline, Arne Slot is indeed interested in versatile attackers, but not at the expense of his defensive structure.

Given the strategic importance of this summer, the suggestion that Liverpool could allow another key player to exit without immediate succession planning appears unlikely. Real Madrid’s offer will be met with due diligence, but early signs point to a firm refusal.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

It’s hard to see the logic here. A swap deal for a defender we desperately need, in exchange for a player we do not? No thanks. Brahim Diaz is talented, sure, but he does not fill a gap. Mo Salah is still first choice on the right, Chiesa is already struggling for game time, and we’ve got Doak knocking on the door too.

Konate’s situation is a concern, but this offer feels like Real Madrid testing the waters during a vulnerable moment. Letting him go for under £9m plus a winger seems baffling, especially when we have no clear fourth senior centre-back. If Slot wants to play with a high line, losing Konate without immediate cover would be a disaster.

We’ve already allowed Trent to leave early and join Real Madrid. That’s enough generosity for one summer. It’s time FSG held the line and ensured that our core remains strong. If Madrid want him, they’ll need to pay full value, and even then, only after we’ve secured proper cover.