Report: Madrid Try to Convince Konate to Run Down Contract | OneFootball

Konate Emerges as a Long-Term Target for Real Madrid

Liverpool’s defensive cornerstone, Ibrahima Konate, has reportedly attracted fresh interest from Real Madrid amid mounting concerns over the Spanish club’s ageing and injury-prone backline. Following the confirmation of Trent Alexander-Arnold’s imminent departure to Madrid, fresh reports from Spain now suggest that Konate could be next in line for a switch to the Santiago Bernabéu.

According to AS, even as Los Blancos chase Juventus centre-back Dean Huijsen — whose £50 million (€59 million) release clause allows for staggered payments — Konate remains firmly in their sights. The Frenchman, whose current deal at Anfield runs until 2026, is being viewed as a long-term solution to Madrid’s defensive frailties.

Madrid’s interest in Konate signals a clear strategic pattern. “Even a successful pursuit of the 20-year-old wouldn’t make the club ‘forget’ Liverpool centre-back Konate,” the report claims, highlighting just how serious their intent may be.

Liverpool’s Contract Dilemma Surfaces Again

Liverpool have already found themselves on the wrong end of Real Madrid’s free-agency strategy. With Trent Alexander-Arnold expected to leave on a free transfer in the coming weeks, the Merseyside club are bracing for another blow. The right-back, who could still be allowed to depart early for a nominal fee to join Madrid in time for the FIFA Club World Cup, has decided his future lies elsewhere — even after being offered a significant pay rise by Liverpool.

Initial contract negotiations with Alexander-Arnold were delayed in summer 2023, allowing other suitors to present their case. The delay proved costly, as the defender has since opted for a fresh challenge in Spain. Some Liverpool fans made their frustration clear during Sunday’s Premier League fixture, audibly booing both his name and his eventual second-half substitution appearance.

It’s a situation that mirrors Konate’s own. With no active discussions on a new deal, and Madrid circling, there’s growing concern among Liverpool’s hierarchy about losing yet another defensive asset.

Real Madrid’s Need for Defensive Reinforcements

The La Liga champions are facing a mini-crisis at the heart of defence. Antonio Rudiger recently underwent surgery after playing through “severe pain” for much of the season. David Alaba, also nearing 33, is no longer a long-term solution. Meanwhile, Eder Militao is recovering from a second ACL injury in as many seasons.

These issues have forced Madrid to look ahead — and Konate, who will turn 26 this year, represents a prime candidate to reinforce the backline. His blend of athleticism, positional awareness and Champions League pedigree makes him an ideal fit for Madrid’s evolving squad.

Uncertain Future for Liverpool’s Backline

Liverpool are now at a crossroads. With Alexander-Arnold heading out and Konate attracting top-level interest, the club risks losing two core defensive figures in rapid succession. While they’ve long resisted selling to direct competitors, Madrid’s approach — waiting for contracts to run down or seeking value-based instalment deals — appears to be a blueprint that works.

Unless Liverpool can act decisively to secure Konate’s future, history may repeat itself sooner than they’d like.