In a stunning twist, Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konaté could be set to extend his stay at Anfield despite heavy speculation linking him with Real Madrid.
According to reports from France, the 26-year-old centre-back is now actively engaged in contract talks with Liverpool, with the club growing “confident” that an agreement can be reached. This comes just days after Spanish outlets claimed a move to the Bernabéu was a “done deal.”
### Liverpool’s Defensive Rock
Signed from RB Leipzig in 2021 for £36m, Konaté has grown into one of Europe’s most reliable defenders. Last season, he featured in 31 of Liverpool’s 38 league games and played a crucial role in Arne Slot’s title-winning campaign.
So far this season, he has already played 510 out of 540 available league minutes, forming a formidable partnership alongside Virgil van Dijk. His consistency underlines why Liverpool are desperate to secure his long-term future.
### The Contract Standoff
Konaté’s current deal expires in June 2026, meaning he can sign a pre-contract with foreign clubs as early as January 1. With Real Madrid long-term admirers — and known to favour free transfers — the Frenchman holds strong bargaining power.
Currently earning around £70,000 per week, reports suggest Konaté is pushing for wages closer to £200,000 per week to reflect his role and importance to the squad.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano confirmed Liverpool face a “difficult position,” explaining that talks had stalled late last year and remain “complicated.” Still, optimism remains after fresh dialogue in August.
### Real Madrid’s Watchful Eye
Real Madrid are believed to see Konaté as their **primary centre-back target for 2026**, though Spurs’ Micky van de Ven is also under consideration. For now, Liverpool’s urgency is clear: extend Konaté before Madrid formalise their approach.
### Possible Replacements?
Should Liverpool fail to agree terms, Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi is being closely monitored as a potential successor. Meanwhile, Federico Chiesa’s uncertain future and Jeremie Frimpong’s struggles highlight the broader challenges facing Arne Slot’s evolving squad.
### The Verdict
For Liverpool, Konaté is more than just a defender — he’s a cornerstone for the future. Losing him to Madrid would be a seismic blow, but with talks back on track, the club will hope his U-turn secures stability in defence for years to come.
