Ibrahima Konate, now in the final year of his Liverpool contract, has reportedly informed the club that he is open to leaving this summer, provided Real Madrid come in with an offer.
According to a report from Marca, Konate has made it clear to Liverpool’s leadership that he would be willing to depart if Real Madrid express interest.
The Premier League champions are seriously considering selling the France defender, who is entering the last year of his contract at Anfield, amid concerns they might lose him on a free transfer next summer, echoing the situation with Trent Alexander-Arnold.
Real Madrid are keen to strengthen their defence as they transition into a new era under manager Xabi Alonso.
With veterans like David Alaba and Antonio Rudiger entering the latter stages of their careers and battling injuries, the club have already secured a promising defensive talent in Dean Huijsen but are still looking to bolster the backline further.
While Los Blancos would ideally like to sign Konate as a free agent next year, a summer deal could happen if they manage to offload one of their current first-team defenders.
The report also notes that Konate has rejected multiple contract renewal offers from Liverpool.
However, his decision is not financially motivated – the French international remains patient, awaiting the chance to wear the iconic Real Madrid shirt.
Liverpool, consequently, are losing hope of retaining the defender beyond 2026.
It is evident that Konate is determined not to extend his contract – he either leaves this summer or joins Madrid for free next year.
Earlier this week, AS reported that Liverpool would demand around €50million (£43m) for Konate this summer.
However, Real Madrid are unlikely to pay more than €20-25million (£17-21.5m) under any circumstances.
Read more: Newcastle to rival Liverpool and Man United for Hugo Ekitike
Bajcetic sidelined, Doak set to feature in Liverpool’s first pre-season friendly
Napoli cool interest in Darwin Nunez as Lorenzo Lucca deal nears completion