Real Madrid have made a surprising decision to drop out of the race to sign Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate, who is nearing the end of his contract at Anfield. The Frenchman will be free to negotiate a pre-contract with clubs outside of England starting from January 1st, 2026.
According to a report by David Ornstein in The Athletic, Real Madrid have informed Liverpool that they will not be pursuing Konate in the upcoming transfer window. Despite showing interest in the summer, Los Blancos have decided to end their pursuit of the 26-year-old center-back.
Negotiations for a new contract between Konate and Liverpool are still ongoing, with PSG also reportedly interested in the defender but yet to make a move for him.
Konate’s form this season has been under scrutiny, particularly after Liverpool’s recent run of poor results. Jamie Carragher expressed his frustration with Konate’s performance in a match against PSV, criticizing the defender’s display on the pitch.
Real Madrid’s decision to back out of the race for Konate could be linked to their successful signing of Trent Alexander-Arnold last summer. The club paid £10 million to secure the English right-back a month before his contract expired to ensure his availability for the FIFA Club World Cup.
Former Liverpool player Vladimir Smicer has weighed in on Konate’s situation, urging the defender to make a decision about his future amid Real Madrid’s interest. Smicer highlighted the pressure that comes with having an expiring contract and emphasized the importance of clarity for both the player and the fans.
Konate joined Liverpool in 2021 from RB Leipzig and has since been a part of the Reds’ defensive setup.
In conclusion, Real Madrid’s withdrawal from the race for Ibrahima Konate adds a new twist to the defender’s future at Liverpool. As negotiations for a new contract continue, the spotlight will remain on Konate as he navigates the uncertainty surrounding his future in the upcoming transfer window.
