Real Madrid planning Ibrahima Konaté transfer for 2026 after stalled negotiations with Liverpool
Real Madrid have decided to postpone their pursuit of Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konaté until 2026, with the Spanish giants now aiming to secure him as a free agent rather than paying a transfer fee this summer.
Madrid shift strategy after Liverpool stance
Konaté, 25, has long been considered one of Real Madrid’s top defensive targets as they look to reinforce their backline for the future. However, negotiations with Liverpool quickly hit a wall, as the Premier League club made it clear they had no intention of selling their French defender in 2025.
According to Defensa Central, Madrid have formally informed both Liverpool and Konaté’s representatives that they will wait until his contract situation allows for a free transfer, rather than pursuing a deal this window.
Defender to remain at Anfield in 2025
The decision means Konaté will remain at Liverpool for the upcoming season, with Jürgen Klopp’s side eager to keep him as a key part of their defense. The Reds are also preparing a contract extension offer to ensure they don’t lose him for free.
Despite this, Madrid remain confident that they can convince Konaté to reject a renewal and join them in 2026. Club executives believe waiting is the most strategic move, both financially and sportingly.
