Real Madrid now ‘READY’ to sign vital Liverpool star | OneFootball

Real Madrid want Ibrahima Konate

Reports linking Real Madrid with Ibrahima Konate have circulated since the start of the summer. He's reportedly on their shortlist to replace Antonio Rudiger at the back.

Though, it wasn't entirely certain that they'd actually move. Especially in recent times.

For instance, claims in Spain were that William Saliba actually topped that shortlist. Saliba's new contract ends that idea - but it was a sign that Real Madrid aren't all-in on signing the Liverpool star.

Football Insider, however, claim they are. They say Real Madrid are 'ready' to pounce should the defender decide to wind his contract down.

And that, of course, is the big concern for Liverpool. Konate's contract expires at the end of the season and despite being in talks for a year now, he still hasn't agreed a new one.

It suggests he does want to leave the club. Or at the very least, believes Liverpool will up their offer as he gets closer to an exit.

We imagine the latter will happen, if Konate plays well. The Reds can't really afford to lose him, not when they're apparently open to letting Joe Gomez leave.

Having a top-quality partner alongside Virgil van Dijk is vital. Especially as Van Dijk himself may not be around within two years.