Kylian Mbappe is reportedly playing an active role in Real Madrid’s pursuit of Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate, encouraging the Spanish giants to secure the Anfield star in the summer of 2026.
Following Real Madrid’s acquisition of Trent Alexander-Arnold from Liverpool in the summer of 2025, the club appears ready to target the Premier League champions again. While names such as Ryan Gravenberch, Alexis Mac Allister, Florian Wirtz, and Dominik Szoboszlai have been linked with potential moves, Konate stands out as the most likely Liverpool player to join Los Blancos next season.
With his contract at Liverpool set to expire at the end of the campaign, Marca reports that the French center-back has become Madrid’s primary defensive target. The club aims to sign him on a free transfer, a strategy confirmed by reputable sources including Fabrizio Romano.
According to E-Noticies, Mbappe is now directly involved in the discussions, having personally recommended Konate to Real Madrid. Madrid president Florentino Perez highly values Mbappe’s judgment, recognizing the striker’s influence both on and off the field.
Mbappe’s endorsement comes after observing Konate’s commanding performance during Liverpool’s 1-0 Champions League win over Madrid at Anfield. Described as impactful, quick to intercept, and among the best in the world in his position, Konate has earned high praise. He also shares a long-standing relationship with Mbappe through the France national team.
Konate himself has joked about Mbappe’s efforts, revealing that the striker frequently calls to encourage him to make the move to Madrid. Reports indicate that Mbappe planned to speak with Konate during the October international break to persuade him, continuing a pattern first reported in September when Konate humorously stated in a Telefoot interview: “He calls me every two hours.”
Real Madrid has a history of leveraging their star players during international breaks to influence top transfer targets, and Mbappe’s involvement with Konate fits this strategy.
Both players are currently part of the France squad for the November international break, suggesting that Mbappe is likely to continue his campaign to convince Konate to join Madrid next summer
