Liverpool are reportedly growing increasingly confident about finalizing a new contract for centre-back Ibrahima Konaté, amid mounting interest from Real Madrid.
The French defender’s current deal is set to expire at the end of the 2025–26 season, leaving the Reds under pressure to secure his future before he becomes eligible to negotiate a free transfer abroad in January.
Since his £35 million move from RB Leipzig in 2021, Konaté has become a key figure in Liverpool’s defence and a trusted partner to Virgil van Dijk. His performances last season were instrumental in helping Arne Slot’s side clinch the Premier League title, earning him widespread recognition as one of the league’s best centre-backs.
However, his rise has not gone unnoticed. Reports from Spain suggest that Real Madrid have identified Konaté as a potential target for next summer, especially with uncertainty surrounding their defensive options.
Despite this, a new update from Defensa Central claims that Liverpool remain confident about reaching an agreement with Konaté. The club is actively working on a renewal package that could see his wages rise from around £140,000 to £200,000 per week, in line with his growing status within the team.
Madrid, meanwhile, are also said to be considering alternative targets, including Nottingham Forest’s Murillo, which could ease some pressure off Liverpool’s negotiations.
For Liverpool, retaining Konaté would represent more than just keeping a top defender — it would reaffirm their long-term defensive stability and send a strong message about their ambition under Slot’s leadership.
The coming months will be decisive, but optimism is building at Anfield that Konaté’s future will remain firmly in red.
