“I love defenders like him on my team” — Mbappé backs Konaté as perfect fit for Real Madrid after Liverpool exit | OneFootball

Kylian Mbappe has said he is excited by the prospect of linking up with France teammate Ibrahima Konate at Real Madrid.

Konate has agreed a deal to sign for Real Madrid when his contract atLiverpool expires this summer.

The Frenchman failed to agree terms on an extension at Anfield, and will depart the Reds after five seasons in the Premier League.

Konate won four major honours during his time at Liverpool, including the 2024/25Premier League title, and Mbappe is confident the 27-year-old will be a good signing for Real Madrid.

Having featured alongside Konate for France, he said the centre-back is a defender that gives his opponents a 'rough night'.

“Konaté is a very aggressive defender, in the best sense. Never a bad move, he's tough in his marking, he wants his opponent to feel like they're going to have a rough night,"he said.

“I love defenders like him on my team."

Konate is set to form part of a rebuild at Real Madrid under returning head coach Jose Mourinho. The Spanish side have also agreed terms to sign Denzel Dumfries from Inter Milan, and Manchester City midfielder Bernardo Silva as an upcoming free agent.

Real have also had an offer of €150m turned down for Atletico Madrid forward Julian Alvarez.