Liverpool’s summer window ended with significant reinforcements across midfield and attack, but one pressing concern remains unsolved — the future of **Ibrahima Konaté**.
The 26-year-old French defender, widely regarded as a cornerstone of Arne Slot’s backline, is now in the final year of his contract. This means that by **January 1, 2026**, he will be free to negotiate with foreign clubs — and Real Madrid are already circling.
### Negotiations Stalled
Liverpool’s latest renewal offer was reportedly rejected by Konaté, with talks stalling over the finer details. Negotiations that once appeared close to completion last year have since dragged on, frustrating both the club and its supporters.
Transfer insider **Fabrizio Romano** has reassured Reds fans, however, that “Liverpool still have the opportunity” to finalise terms before Madrid can make an official move. The club has **several chances before January** to close the deal and avoid a repeat of the **Trent Alexander-Arnold saga**, which ended with their academy icon heading to the Bernabéu earlier this year.
### Madrid Watching Closely
For Madrid, Konaté represents an ideal long-term solution at the heart of their defence. With his contract winding down, they see a prime opportunity to test Liverpool’s resolve. Spanish media suggest the La Liga giants are growing increasingly confident of landing him for free in 2026.
### What’s Next for Liverpool?
Liverpool remain optimistic that Konaté will commit to Anfield. His partnership with Virgil van Dijk and leadership potential make him a vital piece in Slot’s project. But if negotiations continue to stall, the Reds face the real risk of losing another key player to Madrid’s lure.
The clock is ticking — will Liverpool convince Konaté to stay, or will history repeat itself?
