Ibrahima Konate Ready to Quit Liverpool for Real Madrid

Ibrahima Konate has reportedly mapped out his escape route from Anfield, setting his sights on a free transfer to Real Madrid next summer if stalled renewal talks with Liverpool remain unresolved.

Ibrahima Konate contract impasse leaves Liverpool exposed

The French centre-back is into the final 12 months of the deal he signed when joining from RB Leipzig in 2021. Negotiations over an extension have slowed to a crawl, and club insiders fear a repeat of the stalemate that saw Trent Alexander-Arnold tipped for a Bernabéu switch.

Madrid’s long-term defensive plan

Real Madrid are monitoring Konate’s situation closely. With Nacho moving on and Nacho’s successor still unconfirmed, Los Blancos view the 25-year-old as an ideal partner for Éder Militão. Landing him on a free would mirror their savvy acquisition of David Alaba from Bayern Munich.

What Liverpool stand to lose

When fit, Konate offers pace, aerial dominance and composure in possession—qualities that perfectly complement Virgil van Dijk. Losing him for nothing would be a significant setback, especially with Joel Matip already departed and Jarell Quansah still learning the ropes.

Klopp successor faces immediate headache

New boss Arne Slot has prioritised defensive solidity, but the uncertainty around Konate complicates summer planning. If no breakthrough arrives by January, the Reds may reluctantly listen to cut-price offers rather than watch another asset walk away for free.

Opinion

Letting Konate reach the final year without resolution feels like déjà vu for Liverpool fans. A proactive approach—either tie him down early or sell decisively—would preserve both squad stability and transfer value.