Real Madrid or Liverpool? Ibrahima Konate makes SURPRISE decision

Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate is ready to snub interest from Real Madrid, according to French media.

The 26-year-old has been the subject of rampant speculation in recent months. Konate’s contract expires next year, and talks over an extension have not yielded any results despite early optimism that a new deal would be a formality.

Negotiations seemingly hit an impasse ahead of the summer, which naturally attracted the attention of suitors, chief among them Real Madrid. Los Blancos managed to turn the head of Trent Alexander-Arnold and wanted to repeat this trick with Konate.

The initial plan was to wait until 2026 and to sign Konate on a free transfer, but in recent weeks, reports have increasingly suggested that this move could be brought forward due to Xabi Alonso harbouring concerns about his current centre-back options.

The Spanish press, in particular, has expressed confidence that Konate will end up at Real Madrid, with the player said to be desperate for the move. However, it seems that the situation isn’t quite as clear-cut.

Konate open to Liverpool extension

At least that is according to French journalist Abdellah Boulma, who reports that Konate is actually happy at Liverpool and ‘keen to stay.’ He states that talks between the two parties remain in full swing, although he acknowledges that there is still no full agreement.

This is an interesting twist as it may influence Liverpool’s business this summer. The expectation is that the Reds will sign a new high-profile centre-back like Marc Guehi.

A player of Guehi’s quality would come in to compete with and likely even replace Konate. However, with the Frenchman looking to stay long-term, Liverpool may have to target different options.

Jarrell Quansah still has to be replaced, so perhaps the Anfield club will look to bring in a similar player, who is young and can still develop, rather than an expensive, established upgrade.

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