Real Madrid moves closer to signing Ibrahima Konaté as Florentino targets another Liverpool star

Real Madrid is advancing talks to secure Ibrahima Konaté from Liverpool, according to José Félix Díaz. With the French defender’s contract expiring in June 2026, Los Blancos plan to repeat their free-transfer strategy used for Trent Alexander-Arnold.

Konaté can negotiate freely from January

The 26-year-old defender is tied to Liverpool until mid-2026, meaning that from January 2026 he will be free to sign a pre-contract with any club. Real Madrid’s board is preparing to take advantage of this scenario, with president Florentino Pérez aiming for another strategic coup in the transfer market.

Mbappé pushing for his arrival

Konaté recently admitted that Kylian Mbappé, Real Madrid’s new No.10, has been urging him to join:

“Mbappé calls me every two hours,” the Frenchman joked on Téléfoot, confirming Madrid’s strong interest.

The striker’s influence could be key in persuading the Liverpool defender to move to the Santiago Bernabéu.

What it means for Liverpool

At Anfield, Konaté is considered a defensive pillar under Arne Slot. Losing him would be a major sporting and financial blow, which is why Liverpool are pushing for a contract renewal. But Real Madrid’s interest and Mbappé’s role could complicate the negotiations.

Would Konaté start at Real Madrid?

Xabi Alonso’s team currently relies on Dean Huijsen and Éder Militão as starters, with Rüdiger and Alaba also in the mix. However, with both veterans expected to leave in 2026, Konaté could be signed as a long-term replacement, entering direct competition for one of the most solid defenses in Europe.