Real Madrid's interest in Liverpool's defensive player has triggered a reported price tag, according to recent reports.
In the world of football, transfer rumours are as common as a corner kick, and the latest speculation revolves around Liverpool's defender Ibrahima Konate. Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo reports that Real Madrid has shown increased interest in the centre-back, with former Liverpool player Xabi Alonso playing a role in their pursuit.
Konate, who has so far declined to extend his contract with Liverpool, is valued at €60m according to Transfermarkt. However, Liverpool has reportedly set a €50 million price for the defender, who is being eyed by Real Madrid.
Liverpool, who have already broken the British transfer record for attacker Florian Wirtz and signed players such as Jeremie Frimpong and Milos Kerkez this summer, are under pressure to secure a deal for Konate or risk losing him without compensation in the summer of 2026 if a new contract is not agreed.
Real Madrid, on the other hand, is taking a patient approach. They are interested in signing Konate, but they are not willing to meet Liverpool's asking price of €50 million. They are planning to wait until the summer of 2026 to sign him on a free transfer, similar to their approach with Trent Alexander-Arnold.
Talks between the two clubs have paused, with negotiations set to resume. However, there is no official proposal from Real Madrid at this stage. A swap deal involving Rodrygo has been suggested, but it is not being actively pursued.
Madrid's reported interest in Konate a year in advance of their current timeline suggests they may be willing to find an agreement with Liverpool. This is reminiscent of their approach with Kylian Mbappe, who they signed for nothing after he ran down his contract.
However, if no agreement is found between the two clubs, there is a risk that Konate may leave Liverpool for nothing in 12 months. The Reds must not allow themselves to be lowballed in negotiations with Real Madrid for Konate. Madrid's plans can change quickly, and if their offer for Konate is taken off the table, he may be more open to extending his time at Liverpool.
As the summer transfer window progresses, the future of Ibrahima Konate remains uncertain. Fans of both clubs will be watching this developing story closely.
Sports enthusiasts are eagerly watching the ongoing transfer saga involving football's Ibrahima Konate, Liverpool's center-back, with Real Madrid reportedly expressing interest. Despite Liverpool setting a price of €50 million for Konate, Real Madrid might prefer to wait until 2026 to sign him on a free transfer, similar to their strategy with Trent Alexander-Arnold.
