Real Madrid beats PSG to sign Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konaté

 

French defender prefers move to La Liga despite PSG’s strong interest

Real Madrid have emerged as frontrunners to sign Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konaté, beating out interest from Paris Saint-Germain. With his contract running until June 2026, Liverpool may be forced to negotiate a sale rather than risk losing the Frenchman for free in the near future.

PSG tried, but Konaté prefers Real Madrid

According to reports from Defensa Central, PSG made an aggressive move for the 25-year-old center-back. Coach Luis Enrique even spoke directly with Konaté to present the club’s long-term vision and attempt to lure him back to France. However, the player reportedly rejected a return to Ligue 1, focusing instead on continuing his career either in Spain or with Liverpool.

Konaté, who started his professional journey at Sochaux in France’s second division, has never featured in Ligue 1. His career path took him from RB Leipzig to Liverpool, where he became a key part of the squad, despite injury setbacks.

Real Madrid’s plans and Liverpool’s position

Real Madrid are actively searching for defensive reinforcements amid uncertainty around David Alaba’s future and injury concerns throughout their backline. Konaté’s profile physically dominant, experienced, and still in his prime fits perfectly into the club’s strategic rebuild.

Liverpool, however, are not giving up. The Premier League side is reportedly working on a contract extension to avoid losing the French international without compensation. The Reds recognize the defender’s market value and importance to Jürgen Klopp’s successor.

If no extension is agreed upon, Liverpool will be open to offers in the upcoming transfer window to recoup value from the player before his final contract year.

Konaté’s decision shifts the transfer market

Despite PSG’s push, Konaté is leaning toward Real Madrid, shocking the French club’s management. The move could be finalized this summer, depending on Liverpool’s stance and the player’s final decision.

Konaté made 32 appearances across all competitions last season, maintaining strong performances when fit. His reputation as one of Europe’s most promising defenders remains intact, and a move to Spain could solidify his place at the top level of European football.