According to AS, Ibrahima Konaté has become Real Madrid’s preferred option to reinforce the team’s central defense. While the move isn’t considered urgent, it is part of a carefully planned medium-term strategy.

The situation is already creating a stir at Anfield: Konaté's contract with Liverpool expires in 2026, and the French defender has no intention of renewing. Real Madrid is well aware of this and is paying close attention. They also know that Konaté has made it clear—his only destination of interest is the Santiago Bernabéu.

The club’s plan would be to replicate previous transfer coups, such as those involving David Alaba, Antonio Rüdiger, and Trent Alexander-Arnold—high-level signings on free transfers.

Although 2026 is the target year, a potential move in 2025 hasn’t been ruled out. AS explains that Real Madrid wouldn’t pay more than €20–25 million for a player with just one year left on his contract—especially since the player is so eager to join.

Currently, Real Madrid has five central defenders in the squad, so there's no immediate need. However, the club is planning ahead, knowing that Militao is recovering from two ACL injuries, Rüdiger is now 32, and Alaba, although respected, may not return to his peak form.

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