Report: Real Madrid ‘abandon’ move for Liverpool star | OneFootball

Real Madrid Cool Interest in Konate as Liverpool Edge Closer to Agreement

Liverpool’s contract talks with Ibrahima Konate have taken a positive turn after fresh reports suggest Real Madrid are stepping back from their pursuit of the French defender. According to TeamTalk, the Spanish giants have now shifted their focus towards Bayern Munich’s Dayot Upamecano, leaving the Reds increasingly confident that Konate will commit his long-term future to Anfield.

Konate’s Value to Liverpool

Konate has grown into one of Liverpool’s most dependable performers since joining from RB Leipzig in 2021. Now capped 25 times by France, he is central to Arne Slot’s defensive plans, forming a formidable partnership with Virgil van Dijk. His contributions were pivotal to last season’s Premier League title triumph, with many considering him the natural heir to Van Dijk’s leadership role in the back line.

Photo: IMAGO

As TeamTalk noted, “Konate signed for Liverpool in the summer of 2021 and has evolved into one of the finest and most reliable defenders in world football in that time.” That reliability has made him a player the club cannot afford to lose, particularly with his current contract due to expire next summer.

Real Madrid’s Change of Strategy

Reports in France and Spain initially indicated Konate had a “verbal agreement” with Real Madrid. However, doubts about his recent form appear to have influenced a shift in direction. According to Fichajes, Alonso and his recruitment team have “abandoned” plans to bring Konate to the Bernabeu and are instead “very much chasing a move” for Upamecano.

As highlighted by TeamTalk, “errors in key matches in the Premier League and the Champions League have led to a change of plans.” The article adds that Madrid officials remain “concerned about his lack of consistency,” a factor considered crucial for a defender expected to anchor their back four.

Future of Madrid’s Defence

Xabi Alonso’s planning is focused on a generational reset at Real Madrid. Trent Alexander-Arnold and Alvaro Carreras arrived in the summer to strengthen the flanks, while Dean Huijsen was brought in as a long-term centre-back option. Both Antonio Rudiger and David Alaba, aged 32 and 33 respectively, are expected to depart in 2026, leaving Alonso with a pressing need to secure a younger central defender.

In Upamecano, Madrid see a player who is out of contract next summer and could be available without a fee. With contract talks at Bayern reportedly “grinding to a halt,” the 27-year-old seems a more attainable target than Konate.

Liverpool’s Renewed Confidence

For Liverpool, the news comes as a timely boost. Negotiations with Konate have been ongoing for more than a year and, while no deal has yet been signed, the Reds are increasingly confident of keeping their man. TeamTalk reported, “significant developments in the last 24 hours suggest there is now a ‘confidence’ from Liverpool chiefs that Konate will extend his stay after all.”

With Van Dijk entering the latter stages of his career, Liverpool’s ability to retain Konate would provide critical stability in defence. His age profile, experience and Premier League-winning pedigree make him a cornerstone of Slot’s project moving forward.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

Liverpool fans will welcome this development with relief and optimism. The idea of losing Konate to Real Madrid on a free transfer was alarming, especially given his role as a defensive leader under Arne Slot. Seeing reports that Madrid are now prioritising Upamecano feels like a turning point, and perhaps the breakthrough needed to finalise an extension.

From a supporter’s perspective, Konate’s presence is essential. He is only 26, already a Premier League winner, and has plenty of years ahead to grow into Van Dijk’s successor. His physicality, composure on the ball and aerial dominance suit the demands of English football perfectly. Slot has shown he values a settled defensive partnership and losing Konate would have been disruptive.

Madrid’s apparent loss of faith due to “errors in key matches” should not be exaggerated. Every defender faces scrutiny, and Konate has the mentality to bounce back stronger. For Liverpool, this could even work to their advantage, reducing external pressure and making contract negotiations smoother.

If Konate extends, Liverpool will secure a vital piece of their long-term core. For fans, this news represents more than contract talks, it symbolises the club’s ambition to remain at the top under Slot. With Real Madrid moving on, the door is wide open for Liverpool to tie down a defender who can define their next era.