Premier League giants pushing hard to secure defender’s renewal to stop Real Madrid move | OneFootball

Liverpool are doing everything they can to secure the future of their star defender Ibrahima Konate, who is on Real Madrid’s radar.

In fact, according to L’Equipe, the Premier League club is currently negotiating with the French defender’s representatives to extend his contract and fend off interest from Real Madrid.

The outlet mentions that Talks between Liverpool and Konate’s camp had stalled earlier this year but restarted in May and June.

Despite the Reds’ efforts, the situation remains delicate. Konate is genuinely interested in Real Madrid’s project, and this gives Los Blancos a major advantage in the negotiations.

For Madrid, there is no urgency. The Spanish giants are happy to wait until 2026 when Konate becomes a free agent if a deal cannot be reached this summer.

However, if Liverpool soften their stance, Madrid would prefer to bring him in now for a reduced transfer fee.

Real Madrid keeping a close eye

Real Madrid are ready to play the waiting game. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)

The tension between Liverpool and Real Madrid is already running high following the recent Trent Alexander-Arnold transfer saga.

The England international left Anfield to join Madrid on a free transfer, after refusing to renew his deal with Liverpool.

That situation has left the Merseyside club frustrated, and they are now determined to avoid a repeat with Konate.

Still, the risk remains. Konate could follow in the footsteps of his former teammate, leaving Liverpool for Real Madrid either this summer or when his contract expires in 2026.

As reported before, Liverpool value the Frenchman at €50 million, but given his contractual scene, Real Madrid are not willing to offer more than €20-25 million for the defender.

For Madrid, he remains the number one defensive target, but what is certain is that they will not go overboard to sign the 26-year-old centre-back knowing that he would be a free agent next year.