Chelsea joins Real Madrid in the race for Liverpool’s Ibrahima Konaté

French defender yet to renew contract at Anfield, could leave for €60M

Chelsea has entered the battle with Real Madrid to sign Ibrahima Konaté, whose future at Liverpool remains uncertain, reports The Athletic. The French defender, a key figure under new Reds coach Arne Slot, has not agreed to a contract renewal and could be sold this summer for a fee close to €60 million (R$379M).

Chelsea’s Defensive Emergency

The move comes after Levi Colwill’s injury, which has forced Enzo Maresca to reassess his defensive setup. Konaté, 25, is viewed as the top candidate to bolster the Blues’ backline. Chelsea is prepared to offer him an immediate starting role and the chance to become a defensive leader alongside Trevoh Chalobah.

Real Madrid Holds the Advantage

Despite Chelsea’s interest, Real Madrid may hold the upper hand. Konaté is reportedly fascinated by Xabi Alonso’s project at the Bernabéu and would welcome the chance to play in Spain. The Frenchman fits perfectly into Florentino Pérez’s plan to rejuvenate Madrid’s defense, which already includes Éder Militão and Dean Huijsen.

Konaté’s Dilemma: Stamford Bridge vs. Bernabéu

For most European players, wearing Real Madrid’s shirt is the ultimate dream, and Konaté is no exception. However, competition for minutes in Madrid could hinder his growth. At Chelsea, the scenario is different: with Colwill sidelined long-term, Konaté would almost certainly step straight into the starting XI, making him a central figure in Maresca’s project.