Blow for Real Madrid as key target confirms renewal with Liverpool is ‘close’ | OneFootball

Real Madrid are looking to strengthen their defence ahead of the 2026/27 season, but their potential targets appear to be gradually moving out of reach.

First it was Dayot Upamecano, who signed a new contract with Bayern Munich, bringing an end to the speculations of a move to the Santiago Bernabeu.

More recently, it was Nico Schlotterbeck, who renewed his contract with Borussia Dortmund, although reports suggest the existence of a special release clause linked to the Spanish club.

And now they could also miss out on Ibrahima Konate, the Liverpool centre-back.

Konate confirms he is close to renewal agreement

Konate has also been strongly linked with a move to the Santiago Bernabeu on a free transfer in the summer, as his contract at Anfield is due to expire.

However, after the match against Everton this past weekend, the Frenchman provided an update on the status of his negotiations with Liverpool, which dealt a blow to Real Madrid’s hopes.

Konate set to renew with Liverpool. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)

“My future? The truth is that many things have been said, but we have been talking with the club for some time and we are close to an agreement,” he declared, as quoted by Mundo Deportivo.

“We’ve all wanted this for a long time, and we’re on the right track. There’s definitely a good chance I’ll be here next season. This is what I’ve always wanted,” he added.

Clearly frustrated by ongoing speculation, he continued: “I’m waiting for the contract to be sorted out.

But when everything is ready, they’ll have to ask Richard (Liverpool’s sporting director) what I told him in September and November, and I’m sure he’ll say something to shut everyone up.”

“It’s been a tough year, and if everyone knew exactly what happened to me, they would understand many things, the sacrifices I’ve made for this club. Right now, we’re focused on the end of the season and securing Champions League qualification,” he concluded.