Tchouameni part in Real Konate move | OneFootball

Tchouameni’s Message to Alonso as Konate Faces Crucial Liverpool Decision

Real Madrid’s interest in Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate has created a ripple effect in Spain, and the potential move has prompted teammate Aurelien Tchouameni to make his stance clear to Xabi Alonso. According to a report from TeamTalk, the midfielder has already voiced his concerns about being shifted back into defence if Konate arrives at the Santiago Bernabeu. The story intertwines with Kylian Mbappe’s influence and paints a fascinating picture of dressing room dynamics that could alter both Liverpool and Real Madrid’s future planning.

Photo: IMAGO

Tchouameni’s Firm Position in Madrid

The France international has never hidden his dislike of playing as a centre-back. Injuries forced Carlo Ancelotti to use him in defence last season, and while he eventually won supporters over, the experience left its mark. Spanish outlet E-Noticies, cited in the report, claimed Tchouameni told Alonso that “he should not play as a central defender again.”

Despite 25 appearances at the heart of defence in 2024-25, many performances in the first half of that campaign were met with whistles at the Bernabeu. Although he improved, the midfielder remains clear in his preference. As the article explained, “playing as a centre-back has never convinced him.”

That position was reinforced once more when Dean Huijsen’s red card at Anoeta forced Alonso to redeploy him in the backline against Real Sociedad. Even in that scenario, it was a reluctant return, dictated by circumstance rather than choice.

Konate’s Contract Stalemate at Liverpool

Liverpool find themselves in a difficult position regarding Konate’s future. The 26-year-old has already rejected three contract offers, and while the club hope to persuade him to extend, Real Madrid sense opportunity.

The Daily Mail’s Lewis Steele was cautious, stating Madrid feel “close to reaching an agreement,” while Spanish media outlets were bolder, suggesting there is already a preliminary deal. Fichajes even dropped what was described as a “bombshell” that an agreement in principle is in place for a contract until 2031.

For Liverpool, this development raises alarm. Konate has become a cornerstone of their defensive structure, and losing him on a free transfer would represent a significant blow for Arne Slot’s plans.

Mbappe and Tchouameni’s Role in Persuasion

What adds intrigue is the part played by France teammates Tchouameni and Mbappe in steering Konate towards Madrid. E-Noticies reported that the pair were “decisive” in convincing him that a move to Spain represented the right step.

Konate himself acknowledged Mbappe’s persistence during the international break. Speaking to TF1, the Liverpool defender said: “He calls me every two hours! No, no, no.”

While made in jest, the remark underlined the reality that both Mbappe and Tchouameni have been relentless in their attempts to pull him into Alonso’s project at Madrid. It highlights how personal relationships at international level can shape club decisions, particularly when major contracts are involved.

Photo IMAGO

What This Means for Liverpool and Real Madrid

If Konate does move, Liverpool’s defensive depth will be tested, and a replacement of equal calibre will not come cheap. For Real Madrid, securing him as a free transfer would strengthen their backline significantly, while also easing the pressure on Tchouameni to drop into defence.

Madrid’s long-term planning has been geared towards dominating the next decade, and the potential arrival of Konate on a free aligns with their model of mixing star quality with economic efficiency. For Liverpool, losing another senior figure after a summer of upheaval would leave questions about squad stability at a time when consistency is vital.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

From a Liverpool supporter’s perspective, this report makes for frustrating reading. Konate has been viewed as one of the cornerstones of the next era, and for him to walk away for nothing would feel like a repeat of situations the club should have learned to avoid. Having already rejected three offers, there is an uneasy sense that his future may already lie elsewhere.

What frustrates many fans is not only the potential departure but also the apparent involvement of Mbappe and Tchouameni. While friendships in international football are natural, the idea of two Real Madrid players influencing one of Liverpool’s most important defenders is difficult to stomach. Supporters will understandably ask why the club have allowed his contract to reach this point.

There is also a practical concern. Slot’s Liverpool are attempting to build continuity after a turbulent summer that tragically included the loss of Diogo Jota and the challenge of rebalancing the squad. Losing Konate would leave a hole in central defence that requires significant reinvestment. The market for top-level centre-backs is both limited and expensive, and Liverpool cannot afford a prolonged search.

Ultimately, if Konate is determined to leave, then clarity is needed sooner rather than later. The club must not allow themselves to drift towards another damaging free transfer scenario. Supporters expect Liverpool to act decisively, whether that is through securing a renewal or planning an immediate replacement strategy.