Kylian Mbappe is reportedly taking an active role in Real Madrid’s pursuit of Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate, encouraging the Spanish club to secure the Anfield star’s signature in 2026.
Following Real Madrid’s acquisition of Trent Alexander-Arnold from Liverpool in the summer of 2025, the club is once again targeting talent from the Premier League champions. Names like Ryan Gravenberch, Alexis Mac Allister, Florian Wirtz, and Dominik Szoboszlai have been linked with Madrid, but Konate appears to be the most likely Liverpool player to make the move next season.
With his Liverpool contract set to expire at the end of this season, Marca reports that the French center-back is Real Madrid’s primary defensive target. The Spanish club aims to sign him on a free transfer, a plan confirmed by trusted sources including Fabrizio Romano.
E-Noticies has further revealed that Mbappe himself is now directly involved in the discussions. The French striker has “personally recommended” Konate to Real Madrid, a suggestion that carries significant weight with president Florentino Perez, who highly values Mbappe’s influence both on and off the pitch.
Mbappe’s recommendation reportedly came after observing Konate’s dominant defensive display in Liverpool’s 1-0 Champions League victory over Madrid at Anfield last week. Konate has been praised as “strong in impact, quick in interception, and possessing qualities that make him one of the best in the world in his position.”
The two players share a longstanding relationship through the France national team. Konate has even joked about Mbappe’s persistent attempts to persuade him, previously telling Telefoot in September, “He calls me every two hours.” Reports suggest that during the October international break, Mbappe intended to speak with Konate directly to convince him to join Madrid.
Real Madrid has a history of leveraging star players during international breaks to influence top transfer targets, and Mbappe’s efforts align with this strategy.
Earlier this month, Alexander-Arnold reflected on his own move to Real Madrid, noting that the club’s ambition, pressure to succeed, and behind-the-scenes experience were key factors in his decision to leave Liverpool for a new challenge.
Both Konate and Mbappe are currently with the France squad for the November international break, making it highly likely that Mbappe will continue his campaign to bring the Liverpool defender to the Santiago Bernabeu next summer
