Report: Liverpool fight to keep star defender Ibrahima Konate amid Real Madrid pursuit

The 26-year-old's former coach has also weighed in, claiming Konate surpasses one of Madrid's defensive stalwarts.

Real Madrid have already struck a blow to Liverpool this summer, securing right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold for 8.5 million pounds in a deal that allowed the England international to join Xabi Alonso's squad for the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.

The Spanish giants had initially planned to sign Alexander-Arnold as a free agent next summer but moved early to bolster their ranks.

Now, Madrid have set their sights on Konate, with reports suggesting they see him as a key piece in Alonso's defensive rebuild. Spanish outlets indicated that Liverpool have valued Konate at 43.3 million pounds, while Madrid's opening bid of 26 million pounds was rejected.

French media reported in June that Konate, whose contract nears its final year, has declined a new deal with Liverpool, eyeing a move to Madrid in 2026, despite interest from Paris Saint-Germain.

Journalist Pete O'Rourke provided an update via Football Insider, stating that Liverpool remain determined to extend Konate's stay at Anfield. "Liverpool haven't given up on convincing Konate to sign a new contract," O'Rourke said. "They'll hold further talks, but a move this summer seems unlikely unless Madrid table a significant offer, likely exceeding 40 million pounds."

O'Rourke added: "Konate holds the cards here. He could stay, negotiate with clubs in January, or run down his contract. Losing him after Alexander-Arnold's departure would be a major concern for Liverpool."

Konate Touted to Outshine Rudiger

Real Madrid's interest in Konate stems from Alonso's plan to pair him with young defender Dean Huijsen, potentially relegating veteran Antonio Rudiger to the bench. Rudiger, 32, joined Madrid in 2022 and has since won La Liga and the Champions League, but Konate's former coach believes the Liverpool star could elevate Madrid's backline.

Eric Hely, who coached Konate at FC Sochaux's youth academy, told Marca: "Ibrahima's charisma and work ethic set him apart. He's technically stronger than Rudiger, with the ability to play in a three- or four-man defence. He's a leader, like Desailly, and I'm confident he'd thrive under Alonso at Madrid."

Hely added: "Konate's footwork and confidence are exceptional. He was always a team player, inspiring others with his presence. He succeeded at Liverpool, and I've no doubt he'd do the same at Madrid."

Liverpool's Broader Concerns

Liverpool's efforts to retain Konate come amid Madrid's interest in their midfielder Alexis Mac Allister, though a transfer for the Argentine appears unlikely. The Reds are keen to avoid a repeat of Alexander-Arnold's exit, with contract talks for Konate taking priority.

Recent posts on X from Liverpool fan accounts reflect growing unease, with one user stating: "Losing Konate after Trent would be a disaster. Liverpool need to lock him down ASAP." Another post highlighted Konate's importance, noting: "He's our best defender on his day. Madrid's interest shows his quality."

Meanwhile, Madrid's transfer activity continues to dominate headlines. Sources confirmed they are preparing a move for a Manchester City star, while a potential world-record bid for Vinicius Junior looms.

Liverpool, alongside Arsenal, have also been linked with Madrid's Rodrygo, who received advice from a departing teammate about his next steps.

As the transfer saga unfolds, Liverpool's resolve to keep Konate will be tested, with Madrid's ambition and Alonso's vision posing a formidable challenge.