Ibrahima Konate is set to leave Liverpool this summer as a free agent, and has reportedly received offers from both Manchester United and Real Madrid, though the player reportedly ‘prefers’ a move to the Spanish capital. The news comes after talks between Konate and Liverpool over a contract extension broke down, despite the defender indicating in April that a new deal was close.
According to a report from El Debate, Real Madrid, under incoming manager Jose Mourinho, have made an offer to the 27-year-old centre-back. Surprisingly, Manchester United are also said to have submitted an offer, though the prospect of Konate moving to Old Trafford is considered unlikely given the intense rivalry between the two clubs. Konate, of Malian origin, is said to be keen on leaving the Premier League for Real Madrid.
Mourinho is believed to be a strong admirer of Konate, having previously managed several Premier League clubs including Manchester United, Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur. The Portuguese manager maintains a residence in London, and has reportedly held multiple conversations with Konate, outlining his vision for the player within the Real Madrid squad.
TEAMtalk has confirmed that Konate’s representatives are currently in discussions with Real Madrid, but other European giants including Bayern Munich, Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain are also expressing interest. However, Chelsea are not expected to make a bid for the defender, despite monitoring his situation closely, with Xabi Alonso set to take charge at Stamford Bridge in July. Sources suggest that Manchester United’s owners, INEOS, are unlikely to pursue a deal for Konate, especially considering Harry Maguire recently signed a new contract with the club and the inherent difficulty in convincing a departing Liverpool player to join their rivals. This move would provide Real Madrid with a much needed defensive reinforcement as they look to rebuild under Mourinho.
Konate joined Liverpool in 2021 from RB Leipzig, and has been a consistent performer when fit, though injuries have hampered his playing time. His departure will leave Liverpool seeking a replacement in the transfer window, while Real Madrid aim to bolster their defensive options.
