Liverpool is concerned that Real Madrid may be attempting to entice centre-back Ibrahima Konaté to the Spanish capital on a free transfer next summer, according to reports.
The Reds have already bid farewell to right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold, who opted to reject the club’s contract renewal offer in favor of leaving when his current agreement expires this summer.
Although a transfer to Madrid has not been officially confirmed, it is widely anticipated to be finalized at the end of the season.
Madrid is currently working to secure a deal for Alexander-Arnold ahead of the Club World Cup; however, an agreement on a transfer fee with Liverpool must be established to facilitate his departure before the tournament begins.
Nevertheless, as reported by MARCA, Liverpool’s apprehensions regarding Konaté have made them hesitant to engage in negotiations over Alexander-Arnold this summer.
Discussions regarding a contract extension for Konaté have encountered difficulties, and club officials are said to believe that Madrid may have already reached out to his representatives to encourage the France international to depart Anfield on a free transfer in 2026.
Liverpool are not thought to be concerned by the idea of watching Alexander-Arnold leave for free on June 30, given they are only likely to be able to command a fee of €1 million (£840,000, $1.1 million), and are instead focused on keeping their “pride” intact.
For Madrid, it means a nervous wait to see whether the club’s incoming manager—widely thought to be Xabi Alonso—will be joined by his new right-back for the start of the Club World Cup.
Dani Carvajal has publicly admitted he is aiming to return from a nasty knee injury in time to feature at the expanded tournament hosted in the U.S., while current stand-in Lucas Vázquez is expected to be released on a free transfer on June 30, midway through the tournament.
Liverpool, who are closing in on Bayer Leverkusen’s Jeremie Frimpong as a replacement for Alexander-Arnold, have not given up hope of retaining Konaté, known to be of interest to Paris Saint-Germain as well.
Talks will continue with the 25-year-old, who has been an integral part of Arne Slot’s squad this season.
Konaté has started 28 times in the Premier League to date and Liverpool are keen to ensure he continues at the heart of their backline for years to come.