Real Madrid defensive target turns down lucrative approach from Saudi Arabia | OneFootball

Having entered the final 12 months of his contract at Liverpool, Ibrahima Konate has become a target for Real Madrid.

The Merengues’ plan has been to rope in the French international next summer for free. However, there is a growing possibility that a move could be on the cards this summer itself, with Liverpool aiming to avoid a repeat of the Trent Alexander-Arnold case.

Ibrahima Konate rejects Saudi Arabia

Amidst the speculations, Mirror now reports that Konate has turned down a lucrative offer from an unnamed club in Saudi Arabia.

As per the English outlet, a team from the Saudi Pro League made contact with the Liverpool defender via his representatives, expressing an interest in acquiring his services.

If he had responded affirmatively, the Middle Eastern outfit was prepared to quickly open talks with the Premier League champions over a summer move.

Konate has knocked back an approach from Saudi. (Photo by Maja Hitij/Getty Images)

However, Konate rejected the advances from Saudi Arabia and made it clear that he intends to continue playing at the highest level in Europe.

Renewal talks have stalled

The report from Mirror further states that renewal talks between Konate and Liverpool have completely stalled in recent months.

The Reds, for their part, wish to resolve the defender’s situation at the earliest possible. But there is a growing sense of belief within the club that the former RB Leipzig ace could be headed to Real Madrid.

Konate can negotiate with any club of his choice from January 1, when he enters the final six months of his contract at Liverpool.

With the Premier League champions keen on avoiding that scenario, they would be open to a sale this summer for a fee of €50 million. Real Madrid, though, are unwilling to spend more than €20-25 million for the 26-year-old.