Boost for Real Madrid as key target’s renewal with Liverpool looks ‘difficult’ | OneFootball

Real Madrid have already identified some key transfer targets for the summer of 2026, with the centre-back department being an area they intend to strengthen.

Given the likely exit of David Alaba and the uncertain future of Antonio Rudiger, at least one new centre-back could arrive at the Santiago Bernabeu in 2026.

Liverpool star Ibrahima Konate, to that end, has been identified as the main target, with the Frenchman’s contract at Anfield set to expire at the end of the season.

The Reds, for their part, have been trying to convince the 26-year-old ace to sign a new deal, but their efforts so far have not borne fruit.

Renewal difficult

Now, according to Fabrizio Romano, an agreement between Liverpool and Ibrahima Konate over a new contract looks very ‘difficult’.

Thus far, renewal talks have not progressed a great deal and an agreement is not close at all. And, as things stand, the situation looks difficult to unlock.

Headed to Real Madrid? (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)

Real Madrid, for their part, are watching the situation with great attention, with the aim of swooping the French international away on a free transfer if an agreement over a new deal is not reached.

As mentioned above, it is likely that both Alaba and Rudiger might leave in the summer, with their contracts at the Santiago Bernabeu expiring.

So, Real Madrid will need to bolster their defensive ranks despite having splashed big on Dean Huijsen earlier this year.

Konate, for his part, is reportedly keen on making the switch to the Spanish capital club. He will be eligible to negotiate a pre-contract agreement with the club of his choice from January, when he will enter the final six months of his deal at Anfield.

It now remains to be seen whether the 26-year-old ends up following his former teammate Trent Alexander-Arnold to Real Madrid.