Liverpool could sell Real Madrid target this summer as he rejects two renewal offers | OneFootball

As has already been reported, Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate is one of several players the Real Madrid board is quietly tracking with long-term interest.

Los Blancos have compiled a list of targets whose contracts expire on 30 June 2026, and Konate is among the profiles they are positioning themselves for, with the aim of initiating formal talks from January onward.

As such, Konate finds himself at a crossroads, much like Trent Alexander-Arnold and Alphonso Davies were a year ago.

The French centre-back must now decide whether to renew with the Premier League champions or wait out his contract and eventually join Real Madrid on a free transfer in 2026.

Two renewal offers rejected

Now, according to MARCA, Konate has already turned down two contract extension offers from Liverpool.

Unlike the Alexander-Arnold situation, where the club ended up losing the player for very little compensation so he could be part of the World Cup squad, Liverpool are determined not to repeat the same scenario.

Could Konate move to Real Madrid this summer? (Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images)

This time, they appear more open to a sale rather than risking another key player walking away for free. The Merseyside club’s growing unease may accelerate developments around the French defender.

According to reports, Konate is leaning toward a future move to Real Madrid if he does end up leaving Anfield and there is a possibility that a transfer might become a reality this summer itself

Do Real Madrid need another centre-back?

The answer is yes. With ongoing doubts about the physical condition of some of the current defenders, such as David Alaba and Antonio Rudiger, Xabi Alonso could benefit from an additional option at centre-back.

This would also allow Aurelien Tchouameni to return to his natural position in midfield – something that currently seems difficult given squad needs.

Konate is highly rated by Real Madrid, which is why the club had already begun positioning itself to sign him next summer.

Liverpool, on their part, are working to ensure they do not face another Trent-like scenario. So, there remains a distinct possibility that Real Madrid might move for the Frenchman even after having signed a new centre-back in Dean Huijsen already.