Real Madrid have decided how much they are willing to pay for Ibrahima Konate after learning Liverpool’s demands for the central defender, according to the Spanish media, as another source shares what the Anfield star could eventually do.
Real Madrid have reportedly set their sights on Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konaté as a priority target to strengthen their backline. At 26, Konaté is regarded as one of the Premier League’s best in his position and still has his prime years ahead of him.
Although Madrid have already secured Dean Huijsen from Bournemouth this summer, manager Xabi Alonso is eager to add another centre-back to his squad. Their top dream remains Arsenal’s William Saliba, but with Saliba tied down until 2027 and currently negotiating a new contract, attention has shifted toward Konaté.
Konaté will become a free agent next summer, and reports suggest he has no intention of extending his deal at Liverpool. That’s opened the door for serious interest from Madrid, but negotiations may not be straightforward.
According to AS, Liverpool are demanding at least €50 million (£43.1m/$58.4m) for the French international, who they signed from RB Leipzig for £36 million in 2021. However, Defensa Central reports that Real Madrid view that price tag as excessive. They’re only willing to spend around €20–25 million (£17.2m–£21.6m/$23.4m–$29.2m), knowing they can get the player for free next summer if they wait.
Journalist Graeme Bailey adds another layer to the story. Speaking to RousingTheKop, he believes Konaté is likely to run down his contract and leave Liverpool for free in 2026. While Madrid are keen, Bailey says Bayern Munich or PSG could also be serious contenders.
“There’s a deal to be done, but my gut feeling is that Liverpool might lose him on a free,” Bailey said. “Not necessarily to Real Madrid—it might be Bayern, it might be PSG. Obviously, he’s seen what’s happened with Alexander-Arnold, and some of his French teammates like Mbappé have done something similar. I just have a gut feeling that he’s going to go.”
Elsewhere, Real Madrid continue to stay busy in the market. The club is close to finalizing a £43 million deal for another unnamed target—awaiting clearance from Manchester United—while also lining up a £69 million bid for a Tottenham star. Manager Xabi Alonso has also reportedly listed three players for sale, including a top Arsenal target.