Real Madrid reach out to Premier League defender and ask for one crucial favour – report | OneFootball

According to a recent revelation made by Fichajes, it appears that Real Madrid have already contacted Liverpool centre-back Ibrahima Konate, asking him not to extend his current deal with the Premier League club.

In return, the Spanish club have promised to formalise an offer in January 2026 and sign him as a free agent in the summer, following a strategy that has worked in the past with players like David Alaba, Antonio Rudiger, and Kylian Mbappe.

It is to be noted that Konate, 26, is unhappy with the contract terms offered by Liverpool, and negotiations have come to a halt.

This has raised concerns at Anfield, especially as the defender could now follow in the footsteps of Trent Alexander-Arnold, who has already moved to Real Madrid on a free transfer.

Real Madrid admire Konate

Real Madrid see Konate as a long-term solution for their defence. His blend of physicality, pace, and experience at both club and international level make him an ideal candidate to become a future leader at the back.

Real Madrid are interested in signing Ibrahima Konate. (Photo by Yu Chun Christopher Wong/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images)

Sources claim that Xabi Alonso, who has now taken over, has already approved the move.

The plan is clear that if Konate refuses to renew with Liverpool, Real Madrid will wait until January 2026 to make a formal approach and sign him on a free deal six months later.

The club believes this is a rare opportunity to land a top-class defender without paying a transfer fee.

With his future now uncertain and Liverpool under pressure to avoid another high-profile free exit, all eyes will be on Konate’s next move.

Meanwhile, at Valdebebas, Real Madrid are quietly preparing what could be another smart and strategic signing for the 2026/27 season.