Real Madrid have decided not to pursue Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate in the current transfer window, despite long-standing interest in the Frenchman. According to Defensa Central, the Spanish giants are instead eyeing a potential free transfer in the summer of 2026, when Konateโs contract at Anfield is due to expire.
Konate, who joined Liverpool from RB Leipzig in 2021, has become one of the clubโs most reliable defenders. Over the past four seasons, he has cemented himself as a key part of the Redsโ backline, winning praise for his aerial dominance, pace, and composure under pressure. Manager Arne Slot sees him as central to Liverpoolโs future, but contract negotiations have stalled, leaving the door slightly ajar for suitors.
Real Madrid have been monitoring the situation closely. Xabi Alonso, now in charge at the Bernabรฉu, was reportedly keen to bring in another central defender despite the recent signing of Dean Huijsen. Konate was high on his list โ especially given the uncertainty around his Anfield future โ but Los Blancos have now โclosedโ their squad for the 2025/26 season.
One factor in that decision appears to be Eder Militaoโs resurgence. The Brazilian impressed in a recent friendly, convincing the clubโs hierarchy that he can return to top form despite recovering from two serious ACL injuries. That performance reduced the urgency to invest in another centre-back this summer.
While Madridโs interest in Konate is far from over, the timing is no longer right. Unless thereโs a surprise late exit โ such as winger Rodrygo Goes โ the Spanish champions are not expected to make further moves in this window.
For Liverpool, the challenge is clear: avoid a repeat of the Trent Alexander-Arnold situation, where a homegrown star left on a free. Allowing Konate to run down his deal could see one of Europeโs top defenders walk away without a transfer fee โ something the club will be desperate to prevent.
The coming months could be decisive. Either Liverpool secure Konateโs signature on a new long-term deal, or risk losing him to Real Madrid, who will be waiting patiently for 2026
