Liverpool make it difficult for Real Madrid to sign Ibrahima Konate: What exactly is the dilemma? | OneFootball

Getty Images

Liverpool face a growing battle to keep Ibrahima Konaté as Real Madrid circle like sharks scenting blood.

The French defender’s contract expires in 2025, and despite the Reds’ desperate attempts to tie him down, he’s rejected every extension offer so far. Anfield officials now sweat over the nightmare scenario: watching him walk away for free next summer.

Real Madrid, masters of the free-agent heist after poaching stars like Toni Kroos and David Alaba, have Konaté firmly in their sights for 2026. Having missed out on Trent Alexander-Arnold, Los Blancos seem determined not to strike out twice—and Liverpool’s defensive pillar could be their next blockbuster steal.

Real Madrid don't want to pay Liverpool's asking price

The Spanish giants would ideally snag the French defender for free in 2025, but Diario AS reports they might reluctantly table a €20-25m bid if forced into action. Why overpay now for a player they can legally approach in mere months?

Liverpool, meanwhile, cling to hope that another club swoops in with a €50m rescue bid. But Madrid’s confidence is chilling: they believe Konaté has eyes only for the Bernabéu, leaving the Reds trapped between a lowball offer and an impending free-agency disaster.