Ibrahima Konate Nears Real Madrid Free Transfer from Liverpool

Real Madrid is actively pursuing Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate for a free transfer in the summer of 2026, as they plan to revamp their defense following the expected departures of Antonio Rüdiger and David Alaba. Konate, who has declined contract renewal offers from Liverpool and turned down a Saudi Arabian club, is reportedly keen on joining Real Madrid, with contract talks underway for a deal until 2031. This move follows a similar pattern to Trent Alexander-Arnold's transfer to Madrid after running down his Liverpool contract. Liverpool is preparing for Konate's departure by targeting replacements such as Marc Guehi, but losing a key defender on a free transfer is seen as a significant blow to their squad depth. Real Madrid’s strategy combines signing established defenders like Konate with promoting academy talents such as Joan Martínez and Asencio to build a sustainable defense. Additionally, Real Madrid is also monitoring Bayern Munich’s Dayot Upamecano as a potential free-agent defensive signing, highlighting their broader plan to strengthen the back line economically.